Introduction: The State of the Planet (04:55)

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This film examines environmental science issues in modern society. The planet sends distress signals in response to economic practices and human population. If trends continue, one-third of animal and plant species will go extinct by 2050. (Credits)

We Begin with Numbers... (07:10)

In Bangladesh, non-governmental health workers help reduce fertility rates. In urban slums, the unemployed turn to violence and terrorism. Americans consume more electricity and natural resources than Europeans and the Japanese, and produce more greenhouse gases.

Are We Running Out of Water?: Clean Water (08:28)

Vapors circle the Earth and provide fresh water. The Amazon River carries one-fifth of the planet's freshwater; five major rivers may run dry. Water-related diseases are easy to prevent. Powerful groups that control water resources extract huge sums from squatter settlements.

Are We Running Out of Water?: Small Victory (07:24)

Seasonal drought occurs regularly in Zimbabwe. An elementary school principal builds a dam in Chinamora, allowing the community to irrigate crops. A reservoir's borders near the Falcon Dam reveal resource depletion because of urban development.

Are We Running Out of Water?: Wetlands (06:33)

Many wetlands have been converted into developments or farmlands. A catastrophic flood occurs at the Mississippi River basin. Aquifers hold 30% of the world's water resources; the Ogallala aquifer provides water to 25% of the world's irrigated land.

Can We Feed the Hungry? (05:34)

More food is available, but many people still starve. The land becomes over-cultivated and over-grazed. In China, local markets overflow with products; farmers now work in garment factories.

Early Warning Signals... (05:07)

Heat anomalies have struck Chicago, Melbourne, Paris, Calcutta, and London. Carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere are higher than in hundreds of thousands of years. Climate change is causing issues in the Arctic circle; salt marshes in the Gulf of Mexico are growing.

Early Warning Signals... Responses (06:34)

Steve Groff utilizes no-till farming protocols; a protective layer reduces the need for pesticides and fungicides. Israeli scientists study hardier types of plants and improved irrigation techniques in the Negev Desert. Researchers develop drought-resistant forms of soy, corn, and wheat.

The State of the Planet... (02:20)

Problems facing humanity include water degradation, climate change, loss of energy supplies, and deforestation. Individuals need to find a balance between desired items and communal needs.

Credits: The State of the Planet (01:01)

Credits: The State of the Planet