Co-organised by Greenpeace East Asia and Green Zhejiang, the second edition of the “Duck Knows First” Cultural Festival” was successfully held in Hangzhou. The festival’s name is inspired by the ancient Chinese idiom “the duck knows first when the river becomes warm in spring,” symbolising those who are the first to sense and respond to change. While the idiom traditionally refers to early pioneers—in this case, climate change activists—this year’s festival broadened its scope by welcoming participants from non-traditional sector such as culture, art, media and design, fields not typically associated with environmental action.
Wang Jue, Greenpeace Public & Culture Campaign Specialist, emphasized that “climate action extends beyond carbon reduction, technology, and policy. Through the cultural festival format, organizers aimed to highlight that “everything has a climate aspect,” showcasing diverse and sometimes playful dimensions of climate action. A participant from the design field noted their newfound perspective that climate issues are tangible and can be integrated into daily work and life.”
The three-day festival integrated theory and practice. Theoretical sessions outlined five dimensions of climate action—direct and indirect emission reduction, circular economy, climate adaptation, and cultural trends. Participants were encouraged to consider their roles as conveners, communicators, executors, connectors, and conceptualisers within these dimensions. Practical workshops challenged participants to collaboratively design activities with local impact, stressing the importance of inclusive participation and respect for local cultures in addressing climate change.
The festival established a precedent for cross-sector environmental cooperation and fostered a collective climate network across Chinese society. By blending innovative workshops with diverse industry participation among activists. It also positioned cultural events as vital platforms for promoting climate action in public discourse and encouraging broader community engagement.
