The Best Environmental TV Series of the Decade

Here’s a look at some of the most impactful environmental TV series of the decade:

1. Our Planet

Narrated by David Attenborough, Our Planet (2019) is a groundbreaking documentary series that showcases the breathtaking beauty of Earth’s ecosystems while emphasizing the pressing threats they face due to human activities. From the Arctic wilderness to the deep oceans, each episode captures stunning visuals while calling for global action to protect the environment.

2. Years of Living Dangerously

This Emmy Award-winning documentary series delves into the human impact on climate change. Featuring high-profile actors and journalists as correspondents, Years of Living Dangerously (2014–2016) explores environmental disasters, deforestation, and the battle to reverse climate change, making it a compelling narrative on the human struggle against environmental challenges.

3. Down to Earth with Zac Efron

Combining travel with environmental education, Down to Earth (2020–) sees Zac Efron and wellness expert Darin Olien visiting eco-friendly destinations across the globe. The show offers practical solutions to sustainability challenges, focusing on renewable energy, conservation, and responsible tourism, making it both entertaining and educational.

4. Planet Earth II

Planet Earth II (2016) is a follow-up to the iconic Planet Earth series, pushing the boundaries of nature documentaries. With its stunning cinematography, the show highlights the wonders of nature and the threats they face, reminding us of the fragility of ecosystems in the face of climate change.

5. Brave New World

This docuseries, hosted by scientists and innovators, explores futuristic technologies and ideas that could help solve the planet’s environmental problems. Brave New World (2021) brings to light groundbreaking innovations that might lead us to a more sustainable future.

6. Rotten

Rotten (2018–) delves into the complex world of food production, highlighting the environmental, economic, and social consequences of our food systems. With episodes that examine issues like the exploitation of natural resources and pollution caused by industrial farming, the series is a stark reminder of how interconnected the environment is with our everyday choices.

7. The Age of Nature

The Age of Nature (2020) takes viewers on a journey of hope and resilience, highlighting nature’s incredible ability to recover if given the chance. The series emphasizes positive environmental stories, demonstrating that with collective action, we can heal the planet.

8. Extinction: The Facts

David Attenborough returns to narrate this thought-provoking documentary that confronts the biodiversity crisis. Extinction: The Facts (2020) addresses the alarming rate of species loss and its consequences for ecosystems, urging immediate action to prevent further devastation.

9. Chasing Coral

Chasing Coral (2017) documents the devastating decline of coral reefs due to climate change. The series follows a group of divers, scientists, and photographers on a quest to reveal the hidden world of coral reefs and the rapid bleaching events caused by warming oceans.

10. Eden: Untamed Planet

Eden: Untamed Planet (2021) offers viewers an intimate look at the world's last remaining wild places, showing pristine environments untouched by human interference. With stunning visuals and powerful storytelling, the series emphasizes the need to preserve these ecosystems.

Why These Shows Matter

The series mentioned above has made an indelible mark on the conversation around climate change and environmental protection. By offering insights into the challenges our planet faces, these shows inspire viewers to take action, driving home the importance of conservation, sustainability, and global responsibility.

In a time when environmental issues are more pressing than ever, these TV series provide the much-needed context and visual narratives that can help us better understand and care for the planet we call home.