The Congress was inaugurated with sessions led by Dr. Ash Pachauri, Dr. Norma Patricia Muñoz Sevilla, Ivan Ransom, and Eleonora Isunza from Cinema Planeta. The POP Movement and its creative initiative POPPix were introduced to participants, emphasizing youth-led storytelling for environmental action.

In his keynote address, Dr. Ash Pachauri spoke on climate change as a public health emergency, highlighting the need for integrated and collaborative global responses. The opening set a strong foundation for a week of scientific exchange and collective engagement.

Eleonora Isunza and Ivan Ransom inspired the audience by sharing experiences from Cinema Planeta’s environmental film festival and youth engagement through POPPix.

The day concluded on a high note — setting the stage for a week of collaboration, innovation, and climate leadership.