As we enter a time of global environmental crisis, the need for a common language to connect all the people of the world is increasing just as the very symbols that connect us becoming increasingly fragmented.

Modern symbols, such as a religious symbol, a national flag or patriotic image, a corporate brand, convey a powerful meaning but are often fraught with immense conflict - it is difficult to find a symbol among these that does not create controversy.

For us to address fundamental environmental concerns, we need to communicate in such a way that humanity is drawn together with a common language and a common set of symbols, so that we may work together to solve global challenges in harmony.

Being World is a foundation committed to bridging the gap between people and nations by expressing environmental issues through the universal language of the five elemental symbols: Fire, Water, Air, Earth, and Eather.

These potent symbols are universal to all cultures, are needed for all forms of life, and most importantly symbolize aspects of our current global crisis.

The first year we are dedicating ourselves to awareness of Fire. Once the center of the family, the direct use of fire has transitioned into different forms.

Fire and the burning of coal, propane, diesel and petrol, lights our room, heats our homes, cooks our meals, powers our cars and trains, and connects with virtually every aspect of modern life.

Energy, from global policy to personal use, is important to all of us, which is why in the summer of 2015, centered in Switzerland with satellite events in every continent, we are hosting a ten-day event encompassing education, awareness, performance art and installation art.

While the project will have many goals, the most important is raising individual and national awareness of the importance of our energy use, and educating people on how they can make a personal difference.

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