Christi Cooper

Christi Cooper is a prominent filmmaker known for her work as the producer and director of the documentary "YOUTH v GOV." This film chronicles the legal battle initiated by twenty-one young plaintiffs against the United States government, arguing that the government's inaction on climate change violates their constitutional rights. The lawsuit, known as Juliana v. United States, highlights the urgent issues surrounding climate justice and the responsibility of government entities in addressing environmental crises.126

Cooper holds a Ph.D. in Neuroscience and an MS in Microbiology, which informs her approach to storytelling, particularly regarding complex scientific and social issues. She is also an Emmy-award-winning cinematographer and has a background in documentary filmmaking focused on themes of justice and impact.35 Prior to her filmmaking career, she had a successful academic and research career in Europe, later obtaining an MFA in Science & Natural History Filmmaking. Her previous work includes co-creating a documentary series that featured youth plaintiffs suing state governments over climate change.34

Cooper's film "YOUTH v GOV" has received critical acclaim and has been recognized with several awards, including the Wildscreen Panda Award for Best Campaign Film and Best Environmental Film from the Backcountry Film Festival.34 Through her work, she aims to create human connections to pressing global issues, making her a significant voice in environmental advocacy through film.