The Future of Nature - Episode Guide

Learn how carbon is drawn down into the oceans by the "biological carbon pump." Explore how complex ocean life, including plankton, the fish we eat, whale excrement, and secrets from the deep depths, is fundamental to removing carbon from the atmosphere.

Scientists further explore the fact that carbon drawdown is boosted by life and examine the grasslands where the largest number of animals exist. From the tropical savannahs of East Africa to the tundra of the Arctic, from the plains of Kazakhstan to the prairies of North America. Heroic champions of nature and the latest science reveal how important grasslands are to the future, and what can be done to restore them to health and abundance. 

Forests are the most effective carbon pumps on Earth, but they are incredibly complex ecosystems, and the carbon drawdown only increases when they're functioning well and rich in species. Forests of the world are much reduced and for them to effectively help in the fight against environmental shifts protecting what's left and repairing what's been lost is key. There is good news: learn how chimps in the Congo basin are critical to healthy forests and Indigenous wisdom helps rebuild the Amazon.  

Expanding on the scenario of a world where nature is thriving, ecosystems are functioning, and carbon is stable, is there room for 11 billion people? Scientists reveal how humans are the ultimate ecosystem engineers - a keystone species - more than capable of looking after the planet. See stories where people are changing things for the better, integrating our modern lives with nature, and showing a path to a better future. From the metropolises of China to the outskirts of Los Angeles, from the bogs of Ireland to the Favelas of Rio. Humans can make this world one where we can all thrive!