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The Planet

This outstanding documentary series outlines the challenges faced by humanity in the grip of global environmental change, making a strong case for mankind's own contribution to this life threatening problem. Not limited to climate change, The Planet examines global changes brought about by overpopulation, the destruction of plants and animals, levels of consumption, growing economies and industrialized farming. Swedish filmmakers Michael Stenberg, Linus Torell, Johan Söderberg take this serious material to the next level, using unconventional aerial photography, archived instructional films and a thriving soundtrack to bring a scientific subject into the realm of artistic, contemporary documentary. Environmental experts interviewed for the series include Pulitzer Prize and National Medal of Science winner Jared Diamond ("Guns, Germs and Steel"), author and Stanford professor Gretchen Daily, Herman Daly, Will Steffen, George Monbiot, Norman Myers and Lester Brown.

Part 3: Plants and Animals
As more and more people relocate to cities, it’s easy to become disconnected from the importance of the biosphere. But just because we don’t see it around us, doesn’t mean we’re not consuming it – we all rely on air, food and water.

Many essential environmental services are provided by nature, but these are not factored into our national economies, and are rapidly disappearing. Insects alone assist in soil fertility, pollination and water purification, contributing to the world’s delicate natural cycle. This episode of The Planet examines the danger posed by the looming mass extinction of animals and plants, brought about by man-made changes to the landscape. We are the only species in the world capable of bringing about the extinction of other species, and now we have the chance to dictate the future course of life.

Visit our pages for The Planet Part 1, Part 2 and Part 4.

LEARN MORE:

Greenpeace USA

Read Al Gore's Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech

Read about environmental innovators and ideas at WorldChanging.com
Read bios of the filmmakers Michael Stenberg, Linus Torell, Johan Söderberg
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has been established by WMO and UNEP to assess scientific, technical and socio-economic information relevant for the understanding of climate change, its potential impacts and options for adaptation and mitigation.

The League of Conservation Voters
WorldWater Council - a network of public and private sector organization with a stake in water issues. They are responsible for the World Water Forum.
Unesco's water portal
Food & Water Watch challenges the corporate control and abuse of our food and water resources by empowering people to take action and by transforming the public consciousness about what we eat and drink.

ACTIVATE YOURSELF!

Visit our What You Can Do! pages to learn more about Climate Change and Water Issues!