A Telenovela Plot, Real-World Consequences

The storyline of “Muy Caliente” mirrors classic telenovela dramas, complete with love triangles and unexpected returns. However, it highlights a serious issue: the impact of climate change on albatrosses.

The plot revolves around miguel, a fisherman, and Elena, his love. As oceans warm, Miguel must travel farther to find fish, eventually disappearing. Elena, heartbroken, finds solace with Ernesto, Miguel’s best friend. Just as they find happiness, Miguel returns.

This dramatic narrative reflects the real-world struggles of black-browed albatrosses, known for their fidelity. These animals, capable of relationships lasting over 50 years, are now experiencing “divorce” for the first time.

The cause? The climate crisis, which warms the oceans and forces albatrosses to fly longer distances for food. This can lead to couples missing mating season and seeking new partners.

WWF-Brasil’s Creative Approach

“Muy Caliente” is WWF-Brasil’s first “Mexican telenovela,” using humor to raise awareness about climate change’s impact on the planet and its inhabitants.The first of three episodes is available on WWF-Brasil’s social media channels.

The initiative aims to raise awareness and spur donations to support the institution’s marine life conservation efforts.

Behind the Scenes

Cake Llaguno, a creative copywriter at AlmapBBDO, explained the inspiration behind the project:

The plot is based on classic Mexican telenovelas such as La Usurpadora, Llamas de la Pasión, and the othre classics we all watched on SBT. At the same time, it’s an authentic depiction of the impacts of the climate crisis on ocean life.
Cake Llaguno, creative copywriter at AlmapBBDO

Llaguno also noted the importance of accuracy in portraying the albatrosses’ plight:

We got script supervision from a biologist, helping us craft a fun, moving, and playful narrative around the problems these animals have faced. All designed to inform and touch audiences who’ve been hearing nonstop about climate issues.
cake Llaguno, creative copywriter at AlmapBBDO

The series was produced by vetor Zero, directed by Gabriel Nóbrega, with audio, soundtrack, and sound design by PUNCH Audio.

The Bigger Picture: Climate Change and Its Impact

The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies climate change as a significant threat to global health [1].Rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and more frequent extreme weather events all contribute to a range of health problems.

The World Bank reports that 1.2 billion peopel worldwide face high risks from climate hazards like heatwaves, floods, hurricanes, and droughts [2]. These hazards not only threaten lives but also disrupt economies and livelihoods.

the WHO European Center of Environment and Health (WHO ECEH) provides policy advice and technical support to countries to build capacity in addressing climate change and health issues [3].

FAQ: Climate change and wildlife

• Q: How does climate change affect albatrosses?
• A: Warmer oceans force them to fly farther for food, disrupting mating patterns and leading to “divorce.”
• Q: What is WWF-Brasil doing to help?
• A: Raising awareness and seeking donations to conserve marine life through creative campaigns like “Muy Caliente.”
• Q: What are the broader impacts of climate change?
• A: Increased health risks, economic disruption, and threats to vulnerable populations and ecosystems.