The Buzz...About Books

It's Earth Month. Toronto Public Library is happy to present the best of our collections on environmental education, geared to children, teens and adults — we all need to play a role in rescuing our planet. At the same time, please join us for Our Fragile Planet, environmental programming across the city. Learn about issues that impact our city, and how you can do your part to tread lightly on our planet.

It's the weekend and I hear it's going to be cold. What better way to pass the time than to watch movies? These documentaries examine various environmental issues. You may not agree with everything they say but they will give you something to think about.

Blackfish
A powerful look at the lives of captive Orcas following the death of a SeaWorld trainer. This film questions the practice of keeping these powerful intelligent animals in captivity.

Cowspiracy: the Sustainability Secret
This documentary explores the impact of animal agriculture on the environment.

Food, Inc.
Since the 1950s, United States food production has shifted with family farms disappearing and being replaced by those run by large multinational corporations. How does this change impact the lives and health of citizens.

Gasland
Filmmaker Josh Fox became interesting in the fracking process when he learned his family property was on top of a reservoir of natural gas. After he was offered $100,000 to lease his land to a gas company, he took a closer look at the process of extraction and the impact on human life and the environment. 

Lethal Seas
The Earth's oceans are absorbing massive amounts of carbon dioxide as carbon emissions grow. As a result, the acidity level is increasing rapidly. This film profiles scientists who are looking at the potential problems this situation causes. 

More than Honey
Swiss filmmaker Markus Imhoof examines the relationship between humans and honeybees as the problem of colony collapse disorder continues to threaten the bee population around the world. 

Of the Land
Technological changes have a tremendous impact on agriculture in Canada. This film looks at different types of farming in the country, contrasting corporate practices with those of small organic farms. 

Thin Ice: the Inside Story of Climate Science
Geologist Simon Lamb spent three years recording interviews with scientists all over the world to look at climate research from different perspectives. The image above links to the 75 minute version of the documentary. A shorter (56 minute) Broadcast Edition is also available. 

This Changes Everything
Based on the award-winning book by Naomi Klein, this movie considers the impact of community action upon environmental change.

Visit Our Fragile Planet to see the Earth Month programs taking place in library branches.