Production Log #5 Kogi @ COP28 Following Dubais Indigenous Trail into the Desert & Returning home.

When the Kogi met the Bedouin in Dubai's cultural center, it took only 15 minutes until he recommended they visit his brother, Mohammed, in the desert. He noticed many similarities between the Kogi's way of life and that of his brother, suggesting they would both enjoy spending time together. And yes, he was spot on. Not only were we welcomed like kings, but Mohammed unpacked one mind-bending similarity after another while sharing about his desert life. To be very honest, I always had the perception that monotheistic religions look down on indigenous people. This experience, however, didn't show the slightest sense of superiority. Quite the opposite—the humility and genuine interest that filled the atmosphere were a strong reminder of what many religions like to praise themselves for but have a hard time doing: listening. Muhammad showed us every detail of his camp: wind towers that act like AC, discussion rooms, sleeping spaces, and the lovely tents built from fabric that lasted for decades. We ended up sitting outside by the fire, our words and conversations carried away by the soft smoke into a starry night sky. As COP28 came to an end, we witnessed the fossil-fuel-phaseout-rollercoaster of decisions, and the Kogi had a last chance to share their knowledge and perception of nature in a panel discussion. Everyone could feel a frustration and that there is still a long way to go until their wisdom penetrates the membrane of our reductionistic and hyper-materialistic mainstream science. What lifted the mood, however, was the long-awaited return home to the Sierra Nevada, where our next adventure awaits. Stay tuned!