
Ecosophia: Ecological Wisdom 2024
Distributed by Bullfrog Films, PO Box 149, Oley, PA 19547; 800-543-FROG (3764)
Produced by Peter Charles Downey
Directed by Peter Charles Downey
Streaming, 77 mins
High School - General Adult
Climatic Changes; Ecology; Environmentalism; Sustainable Living
Date Entered: 07/03/2024
Reviewed by Irina Stanishevskaya, University of Alabama at Birmingham LibrariesPeter Downey embarked on this documentary in 2016. Initially titled “Prepare Now! For the Collapse of Civilization,” it underwent a transformation and was later rename Ecosophia, which translates to “ecological wisdom” in Latin. This profound wisdom advocates for harmony and care toward the natural environment.
In Ecosophia, Downey draws attention to environmental stewardship and explores the complex relationships between humans and their environment. He addresses critical concerns related to the unsustainable use of natural resources and their scarcity. Specifically, he focuses on the overconsumption of finite natural energy resources to meet the continuously growing economic and industrial demands of our overpopulated world. Additionally, Downey discusses the advantages and disadvantages of alternative renewable energy resources.
The filmmaker showcases interviews, diverse viewpoints, and quotes from respective scientists, environmental specialists, educators, and activists. These individuals include Professor Tim Garret (Climate Science), B. Sid Smith (Mathematics), Professor Ian Love (Physics), Professor Will Steffen (Climate Science), Randy Hayes (Rainforest Action Network), William Ophuls ( Political Science & Ecology), Professor John Gowdy (Ecological Economics), Helena Norberg-Hodge (Economics), Morag Gamble (Permaculture), Victor Pires (Syntropic Farming), Professor William Rees (Ecology& Economics), Professor Stuart Hill (Social Ecology & Permaculture), Uncle Bob Randall (First Nations Elder), Bobbi Allan (Mindfulness), and Professor Albert A. Bartlett, 1923-2013 (Physics).
Through documentary, Downey arises a very important conversation not only about the environmental stewardship but also the urgent shift – from exploitation to cooperation – in our approach to the natural world. In today’s content, fostering ecological wisdom is not just desirable; it is essential for a sustainable and eco-friendly future on our planet.
The documentary is valuable for many educational programs that focus on energy consumption and conservation, alternative energy sources, environmental economics, climatic changes, sustainable living, and human ecology. It comes highly recommended for schools, public, and academic library collections. Additionally, it is relevant for the general public, teachers, and students interested in exploring these topics.
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