“Risky Routes” is a Bloomberg Green Docs Finalist!

What began as a quiet story about toads crossing roads in Switzerland is now heading to Seattle. “Risky Routes” is a Bloomberg Green Docs finalist, competing for $25’000.

I’m beyond thrilled to share that our short film on Swiss amphibian migration, called “Risky Routes,” has been chosen by Bloomberg Green Docs as one of five finalists for 2025. Finalists are in the running for a $25’000 grand prize, to be revealed at the Bloomberg Green Docs Film Festival in Seattle on July 16.

Bloomberg Green Docs is a high-profile climate-focused short film competition that specifically highlights environmental storytelling through short documentaries under 10 minutes.

All five films will be screened publicly at the Bloomberg Green Docs Film Festival.

Our Team and the Making of “Risky Routes”

Together with the initiator Jonas Steiner and Roman Willi (from Wildreach Productions) we worked on this project. Roman, a seasoned wildlife photographer and filmmaker, brought critical skills that shaped the film. Jonas first approached me with the idea back in 2021, writing the script, after finishing his earlier work in Kenya. I was immediately drawn to “Risky Routes” and wanted the film to last beyond the screen. So, I proposed we also create teaching material for schools alongside the film. That way, students could experience migration through the eyes of amphibians, not just watch it. The teaching materials are being worked on at the moment and tested before shared. If you want to stay up to date, sign up to this newsletter or scan the QR-Code.

The music by Jack McKenzie and the sound design by Etienne Kompis really brought the film to life. Their work added a mood and rhythm that we couldn’t have achieved otherwise.

Despite a tiny budget and four years of unpredictable delays, we premiered “Risky Routes” at the Natural History Museum in Olten in April 2025. It felt incredible to screen our work where biodiversity and education meet.

“Congratulations!” and Seattle-bound

About two weeks ago, Roman received an email that opened with, “Congratulations!” We learned that “Risky Routes” was selected among five finalists by a jury that includes leaders across climate journalism (Bloomberg Green), environmental filmmaking (The Redford Center), and award-winning documentarians.

The jury has invited one of us to Seattle on July 16 for the Bloomberg Green Docs Film Festival at the Seattle Art Museum, where final screenings and the $25’000 award will take place. It’s a huge honor and a rare opportunity to share our story on a global stage.

Because Roman and Jonas had prior commitments, they couldn’t attend and that’s why I’m heading to Seattle myself.

I still can’t quite believe it.

What This Means for ExpediTom

This isn’t just an award nomination. It’s validation that small, heartfelt storytelling about nature still matters and can reach international platforms. Whether it’s amphibians migrating across roads in Switzerland or orangutans deep in Sumatra, the goal is the same: shed light, inspire empathy, and support conservation.

Want to help us make this moment matter? Here’s how you can stay in the loop: Follow on social media, subscribe for updates, or keep an eye out for education resources tied to the film.

Thanks for being on the journey with me.

Tom