Charly Alberti: From Rock Legend to UN Goodwill Ambassador
Charly Alberti, the iconic drummer of the renowned Argentine rock band Soda Stereo, has taken a significant leap from the music scene to the global stage as he was appointed the first Regional Goodwill Ambassador for Latin America and the Caribbean by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). This prestigious honor was bestowed upon him during the 79th session of the UN General Assembly in New York, where he aims to raise awareness about critical environmental issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.
Alberti, who is also a dedicated environmental activist, expressed his astonishment at being recognized by such a prominent organization. He emphasized the need for collective action to tackle the urgent environmental crises facing the planet. "We are in a critical moment for humanity, and if we unite and make certain decisions, we can reverse things with a lot of effort," he stated.
As a long-time advocate for sustainability, Alberti has been actively involved in environmental initiatives through his foundation, Revolución 21, which he founded in 2012. His commitment to the environment is reflected in his daily life, where he practices sustainable habits such as conserving water and planting trees in his home in Patagonia. Now, as a UN ambassador, he hopes to amplify his message on a larger scale, urging individuals to recognize their role in combating climate change and promoting a sustainable future.
The Intersection of Music and Environmental Advocacy
Alberti's journey into environmental activism is deeply rooted in his upbringing. Growing up in a household with an artist mother and a musician father, he developed a profound love for nature and a sense of responsibility towards the environment. He recalls, "When I realized that the environment was in danger, I became alert and wanted to try to collaborate so that this does not happen."
His passion for music and the environment converged during the "Gracias Totales" tour with Zeta Bosio, which was the first carbon-neutral tour in Latin America. This initiative demonstrated Alberti's belief that the arts can play a pivotal role in promoting sustainability. Despite facing criticism, he remains steadfast in his commitment to environmental causes, believing that a sustainable economy can coexist with profitability.
Alberti's appointment as a UN ambassador marks a new chapter in his life, but he continues to embrace his musical legacy. He expressed a desire to reconnect with fans through a potential revival of the "Gracias Totales" tour, which was interrupted by the pandemic. As he reflects on his dual identity as a musician and environmentalist, Alberti hopes to inspire others to take action for the planet, stating, "Any individual action, no matter how foolish it may be, is the right action."
Through his work, Charly Alberti exemplifies the power of combining art and activism, proving that music can be a powerful platform for raising awareness and driving change in the fight against climate change.
