Lily Cole says she plans to focus on environmentalism rather than creative pursuits, admitting her artistic projects tend to get “squashed by political activism”.
The model and actor-turned-activist, 32, began her career as a teenager modelling for brands such as Alexander McQueen, Moschino and Chanel, gracing the covers of British and French Vogue.
She has also starred in movies such as 2009’s The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus and The Moth Diaries in 2011, but in recent years has become increasingly involved in environmental and charity initiatives.
Speaking to the Standard, the Cambridge graduate said: “I think my focus will be environmentalism. Whenever I try and focus on artistic or creative projects, then get squashed by political activism. I can’t help myself but get involved. I want to get involved; I care too much.”
She said the environment had “dropped down the main news agenda” due to the pandemic, but hopes lockdown may have made have increased people’s appreciation of it.
“The environment has obviously dropped off the agenda in the mainstream news, but then I think everyone is more introspective now. A lot of people have shifted their perspectives. People have slowed down. People are asking now: what if there was a way to live life as a global community? I am optimistic about the possibilities going forward.”
The model, who published a book this year and hosts a podcast called Who Cares Wins about the enivornment, added: “I think there is more awareness about the planet than ever. There is data and science there - there is an appetite for change.”
Cole is currently working with Material Focus, a UK not-for-profit organisation raising awareness about electrical waste. This Christmas it is releasing the Five Gold Rings collection - a series of bespoke finger rings made from precious metals recycled from waste electricals.
