Natural Connections 1999
Distributed by Bullfrog Films, PO Box 149, Oley, PA 19547; 800-543-FROG (3764)
Produced by Howard Rosen Productions
Director n/a
VHS, color, 46 min. (also available in individual segments)
Jr. High - Adult
Environmental Studies
Date Entered: 11/09/2018
Reviewed by Barb Butler, Oregon Institute of Marine BiologyNatural Connections is a composite of five individual segments (Introduction to biodiversity; Significance of salmon; Keystone species; Forests, biodiversity and you; and Biodiversity vs. extinction). Each segment contains interviews with key scientists to explain the topic at hand. The series makes use of the acronym "HIPPO" coined by World Wildlife Fund in 1994 to describe the factors that contribute to the extinction of species: H is for habitat destruction, I is for invasion of exotic species, P is for pollution, the second P is for Population growth and O stands for overconsumption.
This video conveys facts in a clear and concise manner and Natural Connections lives up to its name by explaining the natural connections between species and their environment. It is shocking to learn that the U.S. contains only five percent of the world population, but that we consume 25% of the resources worldwide. It's also surprising to learn that only 6% of the earth surface is covered by rainforests, yet it is there that we find over 50% of the species that we have currently identified. To take the story a bit farther, there are over 2 million identified species, but this represents only a fraction of the total species that exist on earth. The lesson is clear- to maintain natural connections mean that we must maintain biodiversity.
The video contains stunning photography and is both well scripted and well edited. The series is narrated by Peter Coyote and contains original music by Steven Ray Allen. The music score is at times distracting, but does not detract from the overall production as the series won an Emmy in the Cultural and Historical Documentary category. The series also won an International Monitor Award for Best Graphic Design.
This video, whether in its entirety or in segments, is an invaluable teaching tool. There are dozens of films on the market that address the environmental and biodiversity problems we are currently facing. Natural Connections may have an edge because it will appeal to all age groups.
Highly recommended for public, school and college libraries.