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 (001-005),
Documentary, 05 x 30 min., Arabic, English, Spanish
Episode synopses:
001
The Age of Symbiosis
Environmental philosopher Glenn Albrecht contrasts the human-dominated Anthropocene age with his vision of a ‘Symbiocene’ – a world where people see nature as a partner rather than a resource to exploit. He’s even coined new words to describe both our current crises and a future in harmony, inspiring people worldwide to rethink humanity’s relationship with the Earth.
002
Climate Resilience in the Mediterranean
Three of the globe’s seven continents converge in the Mediterranean. The sea has coasts in North Africa, South Europe, as well as West Asia, and the region has its own, unique climate. Here, temperatures have been climbing at a rate that’s 20 percent faster than the global average. How are people in the various regions adapting, and what are they doing to counter this development?
003
A World Without Concrete?
The concrete-intensive construction sector is responsible for significant amounts of climate-damaging greenhouse gases. It’s a veritable “elephant in the climate room.” But there are alternatives: including material-saving textile-reinforced concrete, naturally rammed earth, modern timber construction, building with fibers, and construction botany, which allows trees to grow into buildings.
004
Chasing CO2
In a bid to hit climate targets, difficult-to-avoid greenhouse gas emissions could also be captured and stored – either retrospectively or before they enter the atmosphere. From direct air capture plants and underground CO2 fossilization to carbon-binding building materials, biochar, and the use of the ocean as a CO2 storage facility – the solutions are as diverse as they are complex.
005
The Netherlands – Living with Water
For centuries, people in the Netherlands have protected themselves against flooding and storm surges with ever more elaborate defenses. But as climate change drives sea levels higher, these feats of engineering are nearing their limits. Now the Dutch are rethinking their approach, shifting from a fight against the ocean and rivers to a partnership with them.
