Each April 22, we recognize the anniversary of Earth Day, the beginning of the modern environmental movement. The first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970 when both activists and Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson voiced concern about the state of our planet and asked Americans to join a grassroots movement to address issues such as air and water pollution, as well as pesticide use. Groups that had been independently fighting against oil spills, toxic waste sites, and habitat destruction now realized they had a common interest. This led to the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency, the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, the Endangered Species Act, and other environmental laws. In 1990, Earth Day went global and recycling efforts increased dramatically. Since then, environmental leaders and activists have pushed for action on global warming and the use of clean energy. 2020 marked the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, and we now recognize our planet for the entire month!
Glacier Meltdown: Imagine a world where melting ice caps have raised sea levels by 20 feet (6 meters) and where the great costal cities of the world could be underwater. It's a nightmare scenario that could one day turn into reality. Now, Naked Science separates fact from fiction to discover the real science behind climate change, the melting ice caps and why powerful hurricanes have doubled in number in the last 30 years. .
Explores the question of whether or not the changes in the weather, including global warming and the greenhouse effect, are the result of human activity.
Former Vice President Al Gore explains the facts of global warming, presents arguments that the dangers of global warning have reached the level of crisis, and addresses the efforts of certain interests to discredit the anti-global warming cause. Between lecture segments, Gore discusses his personal commitment to the environment, sharing anecdotes from his experiences.
Wars of the future will be fought over water, as they are today over oil, as the source of all life enters the global marketplace and political arena. Corporate giants, private investors, and corrupt governments vie for control of our dwindling fresh water supply, prompting protests, lawsuits, and revolutions from citizens fighting for the right to survive. Past civilizations have collapsed from poor water management. Will ours too?
Discusses why many scientists believe that the Earth's average temperature could rise by as much as six degrees Celsius by 2100. Explores what each rising degree could mean for the future of humanity and our planet. Illustrates how global warming has already affected the reefs of Australia, the ice fields of Greenland, and the Amazonian rain forest. Explains what's real, what's still controversial, and how existing technologies and remedies could help dial back the global thermometer.
There are LOTS of ways you can help to protect and save our planet!