Summertime is a great time for movies. If you’ve thought about checking out a few documentaries in between show binges, we’ve got some recommendations of environmentally educational movies that may change the way you see the world. We’ve picked some that won’t put you to sleep and are worth watching, by yourself, or with your kids.
A Plastic Ocean
Both Ali and I watched this movie with our kids. If you aren’t quite sure why Plaine Products offers an alternative to single use plastic this movie will explain it. The official description: A Plastic Ocean is an adventure documentary shot on more than 20 locations over the past 4 years. Explorers Craig Leeson and Tanya Streeter and a team of international scientists reveal the causes and consequences of plastic pollution and share solutions. Available on Netflix.
Minimalism
This is a movie Ali recommended to me. As a designer this movie had a huge impact on the way she sees the world. The official description: How might your life be better with less? MINIMALISM: A DOCUMENTARY ABOUT THE IMPORTANT THINGS examines the many flavors of minimalism by taking the audience inside the lives of minimalists from all walks of life. Families, entrepreneurs, architects, artists, journalists, scientists, and even a former Wall Street broker all striving to live a meaningful life with less. Available on Netflix.
Chasing Coral
We also watched this documentary as a family and it had a powerful effect on all of us. On vacation we all love to go snorkeling, so watching coral bleaching was emotional. I highly recommend it to help understand what impact we’re having on our planet’s oceans as we continue to pollute the earth. Official description: Beneath the waves, coral reefs are dying on a massive scale. These scientists and filmmakers are fighting to stop it. Available on Netflix.
The Lorax
While this isn’t a documentary, it’s a great movie to introduce environmental themes and ideas to kids. Plus it’s got some songs they will love to sing that won’t drive you too crazy. The official description: Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax is an adaptation of the classic tale of a forest creature who shares the enduring power of hope. The animated adventure follows the journey of a 12-year-old as he searches for the one thing that will enable him to win the affection of the girl of his dreams. To find it he must discover the story of the Lorax, the grumpy yet charming creature who fights to protect his world.
The True Cost
The True Cost is a documentary film exploring the impact of fashion on people and the planet. This one might not keep the kids entertained, but it’s important stuff. Believe it or not, the fashion industry is creating huge problems around the world. While many of these environmental educational movies may sound familiar this one covers information that you may not have heard.
Do you have suggestions of environmentally educational movies you’ve seen and want others to know about? Let us know and we can do a follow up post. Or send us a picture on Twitter, Facebook , or Instagram and we’ll share it with others!
