In my search for a film that demonstrates the core concepts of applied plant ecology, I came across many wonderful works of art. Each presented me with new perspectives regarding various issues facing ecologist, and each in their own right left lasting impressions. At the end I had to make the tough call between two very good features, however, I decided to go with Final Straw demonstrates to the viewer a series of natural sustainable farming techniques that were applied in the field. I believe my second option, the documentary Before the Flood was just as effective in delivering its message. 2016’s Before the Flood utilizes Hollywood big budget productions and world renowned actor Leonardo DiCaprio as host and narrator to explore the effects of climate change on our environment whilst also tackling the notion what can be done about it. The documentary explores the desperation of big companies like Exxon and Shell which utilize fracking as they try to squeeze every cent for profit out of fossil fuels since more conventional sources of fossil fuels are being depleted forcing them to exploit less conventional sources which are harder to develop and leave a more destructive path for both the plant and animal based ecosystems. The film goes on to clearly show the connection between putting more CO2 in the atmosphere and rising temperatures, leading to polar ice caps melting and causing the rising of sea levels which leads to more dangerous and frequent extreme weather patterns for starts, while also destroying the most isolated of indigenous fishing communities that had for thousands of year sustained themselves through fishing1. The documentary also focused on active measures that can be undertaken by societies around the globe to reverse the destruction of ecosystems and put an end to what many are calling an extinction level event currently being experienced. The powerful message resonated with many who saw it and saw the film gain critical acclaim. This is part due to hosting many of the world’s leading scientist back up all the points mentioned and by the choice of having Oscar winning actor Leonardo DiCaprio be at the forefront of the message. His talent as an actor aside, he is extremely passionate about environmental issues and is a great advocate for taking the necessary steps since he has for many years formed personal connections with many of the issues mentioned. The message of the film needless to say, also resonates heavily with the conservation topics we explored with regard to the overall theme of this course.
References:
[1] “Before the Flood”, 2016 documentary film, directed and produced by Fisher Stevens, distributed by National Geographic Documentary Films.
Applied Plant Ecology Winter 2020 