"It's time to take climate change seriously". Using their voices to shine a spotlight on the global climate emergency, high profile personalities are participating in a powerful campaign called "The World Is In Our Hands". In partnership with the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the Krim Group, a social impact consulting company, and Accor discover this strong initiative.

Source: Accor HotelsSource: Accor Hotels
Source: Accor Hotels

All eyes were on screen, but the climate emergency was on the minds of attendees during the Toronto International Film Festival that was held on September 2019.

Behind the scenes, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) teamed up with acclaimed photographer Justin Wu, The Krim Group and Accor to set up a pop-up photo studio at Toronto's iconic hotel: the Fairmont Royal York.

The activation marked the beginning of an initiative called "The World Is In Our Hands"…

Fairmont Royal York— Photo by Accor HotelsFairmont Royal York— Photo by Accor Hotels
Fairmont Royal York— Photo by Accor Hotels

Celebrity voices have power

And these celebs are using theirs to encourage us all to fight climate change.

Antonio Banderas, Susan Sarandon, Joaquin Phoenix, Rainn Wilson, Rosario Dawson, Neve Campbell and Alfre Woodard are among the bold-faced names.

"The World Is In Our Hands," captures them in black and white photographs holding a pristine globe in their hands.

And since September 18th, the A-listers are sharing their photos on social media with a strong message describing how they are personally addressing one of the most critical issues of our time. Each photo is thus paired with action items anyone can add to their daily life. Whether it's traveling sustainably, using less energy or demanding action from leaders, the featured celebrities are advocating for everyone to take matters into their own hands.

By making simple changes to habits and routines, including everyday choices with less harmful effects on the environment, everyone has the power to confront the climate challenge.

Can you spot our 2 famous Accor personalities?

Heather McCrory, CEO, Accor North & Central America and Edwin Frizell, Regional Vice President Accor Central Canada & General Manager, Fairmont Royal York took part in this important initiative by showcasing Accor's strong commitment towards sustainability.

Heather McCrory, CEO, Accor North & Central America & Edwin Frizell, Regional VP Accor Central Canada & GM, Fairmont Royal York— Photo by Accor HotelsHeather McCrory, CEO, Accor North & Central America & Edwin Frizell, Regional VP Accor Central Canada & GM, Fairmont Royal York— Photo by Accor Hotels
Heather McCrory, CEO, Accor North & Central America & Edwin Frizell, Regional VP Accor Central Canada & GM, Fairmont Royal York— Photo by Accor Hotels

HEATHER MCCRORY: 'We are honored to participate in and support this outstanding campaign alongside notable environmental leaders and celebrities in an effort to collectively continue to raise awareness locally and globally about climate change.'

About Accor, a world-leading hospitality group

Accor is a world leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,300 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries. The group has one of the industry's most diverse and fully-integrated hospitality ecosystems encompassing more than 40 luxury, premium, midscale and economy hotel brands, entertainment and nightlife venues, restaurants and bars, branded private residences, shared accommodation properties, concierge services, co-working spaces and more. Accor's unmatched position in lifestyle hospitality – one of the fastest growing categories in the industry – is led by Ennismore, a joint venture, which Accor holds a majority shareholding. Ennismore is a creative hospitality company with a global collective of entrepreneurial and founder-built brands with purpose at their heart. Accor boasts an unrivalled portfolio of distinctive brands and more than 260,000 team members worldwide. Members benefit from the company's comprehensive loyalty program – ALL - Accor Live Limitless – a daily lifestyle companion that provides access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences. Through its Planet 21 – Acting Here, Accor Solidarity, RiiSE and ALL Heartist Fund initiatives, the Group is focused on driving positive action through business ethics, responsible tourism, environmental sustainability, community engagement, diversity and inclusivity. Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France and publicly listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACCYY) in the United States. For more information visit group.accor.com, or follow Accor on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.