Check It Out: Climate Movies and Podcasts

Enjoy podcasts and movies about climate and sustainability.
By Carolina Safar
Split image. Left, David Attenborough, right, 30 Animals That Made Us Smarter
SHANNON FINNEY—GETTY IMAGES; BBC NEWS

There’s an old saying that goes “children are the future.” Climate researchers and sustainability advocates around the world truly believe this. They strive to pave the way for younger generations. The movies and podcasts on this list will educate you about some of those people’s work, pique your interest in the field, and offer insight into your green future.

Movies

  • David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet (2020, PG) This documentary highlights the beauty of every nook of our planet—and the impact humans have made there. With stunning cinematography as a backdrop, Attenborough weaves his personal story into the film and delivers a powerful message about sustainability.

  • Chasing Coral (2017, PG) This suspenseful film documents the three-year mission of a team of divers, photographers, and scientists as they uncover the reasons behind global coral decline. The beautiful photography and cinematography in this movie reveal a troublesome truth.

  • Kiss the Ground (2020, G) This technical and highly informational documentary outlines how people can combat climate change by regenerating the world’s soil. Follow the path of carbon in and out of Earth’s cycles as you learn the science behind this potentially groundbreaking approach. 

Podcasts

  • 30 Animals That Made Us Smarter Brought to you by the BBC News World Service, this podcast collection dives into the many life-changing hacks we have learned from, and could learn from, animals. You’ll be amazed by the technologies and innovations that were inspired by wildlife; the number of ideas that come from our natural world is just another reason conservation is so important. Listen to favorite episodes including “Kingfisher and Bullet Train” and “Electric Eels and Medical Implants.”

  • Green Teens This relatively new podcast is created for teens, by teens. Hosted by members of the Global Co Lab Network’s Climate Hub, the series explores topics such as fashion sustainability, eco-anxiety, and plastics. Support this group by giving some of the top episodes, like “Fast Fashion” and “All About Plastic,” a listen.

  • Earth Rangers This lighthearted podcast series brings to life the stories of fictional characters such as Adelia Goodwin and her secret nature journal, and Earth Ranger Emma and her investigative journalism. The combination of fictional storytelling and real-life science make for an enjoyable listening experience. Jump in with episodes “The Big Melt” and “Biodi-what?!-sity.”