Even before we launched ±«Óãtv Ideas in 2018, we knew that the environment and climate change would be an area of significant interest to our intended audience. As a platform which focuses on 18-45s who are curious to gain a better understanding of the world, it was clear that climate change presented an existential crisis to them like virtually no other.
We wanted to focus on climate change not just as a science story, but as something that touches many different areas of life, from psychology to anthropology, from economics to nutrition. We were also keen to explore the topic in as creative way as possible - using a variety of techniques including 2D and 3D animation, spoken word, stop-motion, interviews and mini documentaries.
Our sustainable thinking playlist has had over 2.5 million views on our site, and many more on social media.
It currently consists of 32 films covering topics as varied as eco-anxiety, sustainable fashion and whether or not we should stop flying.
Here are three films we’re particularly proud of:
At ±«Óãtv Ideas we’re very keen on thought experiments – asking ‘what if’… what if we all planted a tree, what if mammoths were brought back to life etc. One of the most popular films we’ve made of this type is ‘What if all the wasps disappeared?’ Although wasps don’t get nearly as much attention as bees – in fact many people see them as an annoyance - they are absolutely fundamental to our ecosystems as both predators and pollinators. Audience reaction to this film has been incredibly positive, with some saying it’s changed their view of wasps entirely!
One of the things we love to do at ±«Óãtv Ideas is take an everyday object or thing, and shine new light on it. Our film about ‘Why soil is one of the most amazing things on earth’ was a great example of that. Working with experts from the Royal Society, and a stylish animation by Flock London, we brought to life this everyday substance and revealed how essential it really is to life on the planet. By the end of the film you’re left wondering, if it’s really so incredible, why do we - literally - treat it like dirt?
Is it time to reassess our relationship with nature? This animation, also created by Flock London, was made with Dr Eleni Dimou at The Open University. Using a rich, jewel-coloured palette, it explored why humans often feel separate to nature – and reminds us that we are more closely connected to it than we think.