Sustaining Earth
The longer we exist as a human race and the more numerous we become, the more profoundly we shape our home planet. And not just for the better: environmental pollution, the destruction of natural habitats and global warming are the consequences of economic growth, prosperity and consumption – first and foremost by people living in old and newly industrialized countries, or NICs. But at the same time, there’s a growing realization that something has to change. All around the world, people are committed to creating a more sustainable life on Earth. But are measures such as conservation projects, CO2 reduction campaigns and technological innovations in the energy sector doing enough to safeguard planet Earth as a habitat for all? Or should most of us be completely rethinking our relationship with Nature, our economic systems and our lifestyles? Sustaining Earth presents solutions and new approaches in all relevant areas, all around the world.
Order number 164974 (006-009),
Documentary, 04 x 30 min., Arabic, English, Spanish
(5 additional episodes available)
Sustaining Earth
Episode synopses:
Sustaining Earth (Episodes 001-005)
006
The Forest and the Climate
Trees are one of the central foundations of life on Earth. They absorb CO2, store water and release oxygen. But humans are destroying millions of hectares of forest every year. European colonialism and industrialization in particular have accelerated this fatal development. A greater awareness of the life of trees and their importance is now more necessary than ever.
007
Bringing Tropical Forests Back to Life
Costa Rica lost three quarters of its forest to deforestation, mainly caused by the growth of intensive farming. But thanks to a creative variety of measures, the Central American country has managed to bring back its diverse tropical rainforests. That’s made Costa Rica a role model in terms of nature conservation and a beloved travel destination for ecotourists.
008
Is the Bioeconomy a Solution to the Climate Crisis?
The use of fossil fuels is causing climate change and threatening life on Earth. Is an economy based on biological resources the solution? The concept of a bioeconomy calls for far more than the traditional use of renewable resources. It employs state-of-theart biotechnology to generate green energy and works towards the sustainable production of goods and commodities.
009
Saving Europe’s Nature
Europe’s landscapes are hugely diverse – and the continent is the second most densely populated in the world after Asia. But in many regions, agriculture, industry, and urban development have displaced Europe’s once-rich biodiversity. And climate change is causing mountain glaciers to melt. In these times, how can we succeed in living with nature, and not just off it?
