Francis Fulton-Smith (53, "Family Dr. Kleist") is more than just an actor, the German-British is also passionate about environmental protection. "Everyone with a brain between their ears should participate," the 53-year-old clarifies. In a few days he will be a guest at the "EuroMinds Economic Summit" (January 31 to February 2) in Hamburg. The idea of this summit is to work together with business, media, politics, celebrities and citizens to work out solutions to current problems. The TV star appears as an expert on the subject of energy sources of the future. He is investing in a company that wants to generate energy from non-recyclable plastic waste. "I want to help clean up our planet," emphasizes the actor and also explains what each individual can do on a small scale.
You have been committed to the environment for many years and are a member of the advisory board of the "Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation". What are you doing exactly?
Francis Fulton-Smith: Prince Albert II of Monaco is primarily committed to the three most important life-sustaining things on our planet. Climate change, the protection of biodiversity and it fights for free access to drinking water. His special focus is on the conservation of the rainforest in the Amazon, the protection of the Arctic Circle and of course the entire Mediterranean region. One of my tasks is to support the Prince's message in the media and, if necessary, to identify suitable projects and to propose to the Foundation.
They are also involved in a company that tries to make oil out of plastic. Can it really succeed?
Fulton-Smith: That is the plan. But the company does not produce oil, but ready-to-use diesel from non-recyclable plastic waste. No additional refining is necessary and the process takes place without toxic emissions. This process produces about 85 percent diesel, about 12 percent petroleum and the rest is LPG gas, which in turn is sufficient to fire the entire system. The energy cycle is thus closed and independent. It is also exciting that this type of fuel production has a 38 percent lower CO2 value than the fuel production from fossil crude oil. The process has been successfully scientifically tested and certified. The first plant is currently under construction in Amsterdam. Various other locations are being planned. Instead of incinerating non-recyclable plastic waste in a highly toxic way or burying it in the third world, there is now a realistic possibility of converting and recycling the enormous plastic problem without residue. I want to help clean up our planet.
Why are you so committed to sustainability?
Fulton-Smith: Our parents and grandparents rebuilt the war with the slogan "Rama Dama" (we're cleaning up!). Today we have to clean up the planet. Anyone with a brain between their ears should take part.
How environmentally friendly do you live privately?
Fulton-Smith: There is a lot that everyone can contribute on a small scale. Of course, we try to live as environmentally consciously as possible, like most families. For example, we take care to reduce consumption frenzy and save resources overall. We mainly eat regional and seasonal food and support domestic economic products.
When it comes to climate issues, the name Greta quickly comes up. What do you think of the 17 year old?
Fulton-Smith: Every vote counts to make the world's governments rethink. Greta is the voice of youth. I hope she has good advisors who take this opportunity responsibly. I would find it desirable that things turn for the better in the future without having to be radically polarized first! It is time for governments, business and industry to work together to implement the structural change seriously and sustainably and not continue to degenerate into unscrupulous lobbyists.
You have two daughters yourself, are you trying to be a role model for sustainability?
Fulton-Smith: Of course, but frankly, my daughters are already extremely independent and quite aware of their age when it comes to their consumption. That makes me proud.