Fighting for a Green Future takes you through some of the key wins of the last 50 years by the Australian environment movement; how passionate environmentalists achieved those wins; what needs to change in society, law, economics and politics in order to restore and protect the environment; and lessons for the future. Interviews with outstanding Australian environmentalists, scientists, political leaders, first nation and young activists with archival footage, and vision of our beautiful environment.
It shows the community can win and has the tools to move towards a greener, sustainable future. At a time of significant challenge for our environment, can we have hope for a green future?
Seven episodes of approx 8mins each. Filming completed and we are at the outreach stage. Contact marijs.vrancken@tec.org.au to see the full series.
1. BIRTH OF A MOVEMENT: the emergence of environmental concern in the 1960s and 70s and exponential growth of local, state and national NGOs.
Veteran campaigners recall their battles.
2. CLEAN AIR: air quality was a major health hazard. We look at how the oil and car companies opposed new vehicle emission controls – and how the community won.
3. SAVE THE RAINFOREST: rainforests were being logged out of existence. The campaign reflected dramatic changes in rural communities and politics. We revisit the action at Terania Creek – the modern world’s first forest blockade.
4. WASTENOT: waste and plastic pollution are big issues. Tracking across decades of actions to deal with waste, including ocean dumping of toxic waste, city incinerators and landfill, we come to the 13-year battle for 10c drink container refunds as environment groups are pitched against big soft drink companies.
5. VOICE FOR NATURE: how science, law, economics, the media, politics and community, work to advocate for protection of nature and how they can be reformed.
6. GREEN POLITICS: environmental decisions are political and key players reflect on how decisions are made and why we must be involved.
7. THE FUTURE: Our participants tell us their hopes and fears for the future, and what actions can make a real impact to reduce eco-grief and lead to a positive future for our environment.
We aim to:
EDUCATE – by increasing public awareness and understanding of the problems the environment faces through storytelling and showing the lessons learnt over the years looking towards implementing the solutions for a greener future.
CELEBRATE – there have been many wins over the past 50 years, and the series showcases that it is not all doom and gloom. This is vital to maintain positive action.
INSPIRE AND ENGAGE – motivate (particularly the younger generation) those looking for solutions to issues they care about.
