10 best environmental documentaries to watch in 2023

March 17, 2023

Watching environmental documentaries can help you learn more about the importance of protecting the environment and raising awareness about the threats to our planet. By watching these documentaries, you can gain a better understanding of the issues facing the environment and how we can help to solve them

Introduction

Are you looking to learn more about the impact of our everyday choices on the environment? Check out these 10 best environmental documentaries to watch in 2023. From documenting the effects of climate change on our planet to exploring the dangers of toxic waste, these films will provide a unique perspective on the challenges we face as a society and the steps we need to take to make a difference. So whether you want to learn more about the issues facing our planet today or prepare for tomorrow, these documentaries are perfect for you.

1) 8 BILLION ANGELS

This documentary explores how our population’s demand for resources exceeds nature’s capacity to provide them since our planet is home to 80 million people each year. This is done by exploring the connection between environmental catastrophes, overconsumption, and unsustainable populations in 8 Billion Angels. As part of its efforts to create a sustainable and equitable planet, the organization also offers solutions such as global education for women and girls.

2) DAVID ATTENBOROUGH: A LIFE ON OUR PLANET (2020)

After observing the planet for 60 years, Sir David Attenborough gives his predictions on what the future holds for Earth. There’s no pretty picture here. According to him, the planet is dying. As a result, climate change will rapidly accelerate as we reach a tipping point.

Despite what appears to be a hopeless situation, there is still some hope. To save our planet, Attenborough outlines what we can do. Deforestation must be ended, global population stabilization must be achieved, and renewable energy must be transitioned.

3) KISS THE GROUND (2020)

In this documentary, filmmakers Joshua and Rebecca Tickell share how soil can counteract the climate crisis. Soil can store carbon, reducing the effects of greenhouse gases by regenerating and improving the quality of Earth’s soil. By nurturing and maintaining the health of the soil, we can fully stabilize the climate, restore ecosystems, and create sustainable food systems (how food is produced, distributed, and consumed). Focusing on environmental activists, scientists, and celebrities, this documentary aims to mobilize a movement to save our planet.

4) COWSPIRACY (2014)

In this 2014 documentary, filmmakers Kip Andersen and Keegan Kuhn shine a light on the agricultural industry. They reveal startling statistics, proving that livestock agriculture is one of the most environmentally destructive industries. And a major contributor to issues like greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, rising sea levels, and species extinction.

This documentary showcases the factual if grim, reality. Individual efforts to curb climate change won’t move the needle without a change in animal consumption and the animal agribusiness industry. It will take a collective effort by individuals and governments to address these issues appropriately. Overall, it’s important to take action to reduce our environmental impact, whether through diet or other means.

5) MY OCTOPUS TEACHER (2020)

The Academy Award-winning documentary My Octopus Teacher explores the relationships between humans and animals. It’s a beautiful, entwined relationship that can help us to understand and appreciate the natural world. In this film, director Craig Foster learns so much about life from his unlikely companion – including vulnerability and the beauty in endings. The film shows that we can learn and grow by getting closer to nature.

6) SEASPIRACY (2021)

In a nutshell, the seas piracy documentary explores the fishing industry’s harmful practices and their impact on marine life. It highlights how these practices are exacerbating climate change, leading to mass species extinction, and causing social injustices for people living near the coast.

The documentary includes stories from fishermen and environmental activists about the hardships they face working in this industry. Overall, Seaspiracy is a valuable resource for understanding the impacts of unsustainable fishing practices on our environment and the people who rely on the ocean for food, livelihoods, and life.

7) BLACKFISH (2021)

Are being damaged and mistreated. Overall, Blackfish is an informative and emotional film highlighting the damaging effects of keeping marine life captive. It gives a powerful look into these animals’ lives and the challenges those who work with them face. The director masterfully shows these creatures’ beauty while highlighting their suffering. Overall, Blackfish is a moving and thought-provoking documentary that will leave you questioning the treatment of marine life in captivity.

8) I AM GRETA (2020)

This documentary gives an in-depth look into the life and work of Greta Thunberg, a young activist who has helped raise awareness about climate change. The film focuses on her efforts to call for action on the issue, her journey and how she became known worldwide. Through this documentary, we get a deeper understanding of why climate change is such a pressing issue and why it’s important to take action to protect the environment. Overall, I Am Greta provides an inspiring and thought-provoking look at one driven individual’s dedication to helping save the planet.

9) 2040 (2019)

Damon Gameau takes a unique approach to highlighting different environmental issues. He discusses climate change as a father worried about the Earth’s sustainability for his daughter. In the documentary, Gameau takes viewers on a journey as he searches for climate change solutions. Along the way, we meet innovators and changemakers who explain a sustainable world is possible if we make drastic changes. Tone: informative Output: In 2040, director Damon Gameau uniquely highlights different environmental issues. He discusses climate change as a father worried about the Earth’s sustainability for his daughter. In the documentary, Gameau takes viewers on a journey as he searches for climate change solutions. Along the way, we meet innovators and changemakers who explain a sustainable world is possible if we make drastic changes.

10) HONEYLAND (2019)

“Honeyland” was well-received by critics and audiences alike and won numerous awards, including three at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival. The film was praised for its stunning cinematography and intimate portrayal of Hatidze and her way of life.

The film captures the clash between the two approaches to beekeeping, and the impact it has on the bees, the environment, and the lives of the people involved. It also highlights the themes of tradition, sustainability, and the balance between human needs and the needs of nature.

Honeyland” is a 2019 documentary film directed by Tamara Kotevska and Ljubomir Stefanov. The film tells the story of Hatidze Muratova, a wild beekeeper who lives in a remote village in North Macedonia.

The film shows how Hatidze collects honey from the hives in the mountainous region and sells it in the city. Hatidze deeply respects the bees and takes only as much honey as she needs, leaving enough for the bees to survive. The film also shows how Hatidze cares for her elderly and bedridden mother, Nazife.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Watching environmental documentaries can help you learn more about the importance of protecting the environment and raising awareness about the threats to our planet. By watching these documentaries, you can gain a better understanding of the issues facing the environment and how we can help to solve them. These films are an excellent way to raise your awareness about the threats to our planet and get involved in helping to solve them. If you’re interested in watching some of the best environmental documentaries of the year, be sure to check out this list.

FAQ

Why are environmental documentaries important?

Environmental documentaries are important because they help raise awareness of critical environmental issues and the impact of human activity on the planet. They can inspire individuals and communities to take action to reduce their environmental footprint and advocate for policy changes that support sustainability and environmental protection. Documentaries can also help hold corporations and governments accountable for their environmental impact.

Can environmental documentaries be too depressing or overwhelming?

Some people may find environmental documentaries depressing or overwhelming due to the serious nature of the issues they address. However, many documentaries offer hope and practical solutions for addressing environmental problems. It's important to balance awareness of our challenges with a sense of agency and action.

Are any environmental documentaries focusing on specific issues or regions?

Yes, many environmental documentaries focus on specific issues or regions. For example, "A Plastic Ocean" (2016) explores the impact of plastic pollution on the world's oceans, while "Cowspiracy" (2014) examines the environmental impact of animal agriculture. "The Ivory Game" (2016) focuses on the illegal ivory trade and its impact on African elephant populations, and "Unnatural Disaster: The Tears of Sichuan Province" (2009) examines the environmental and human impact of the 2008 Sichuan earthquake in China.

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