A new Sustainable Community Film Series launches on March 27, offering the first of three documentaries aimed at educating and engaging local residents about topics related to sustainability.
The spring series follows a very successful winter series, which drew up to 50 viewers for each of the three films offered.
The South Cariboo Sustainability Committee (SCCC) is hosting the series and committee chairperson Patricia Spencer says high interest in the last series has prompted them to find a larger venue at the 100 Mile House United Church. Formerly the screenings were held at the 100 Mile House Branch Library.
The first film being offered is White Water, Black Gold, directed by David Lavallee.
It uses his perspective, as he follows an imaginary drop of water down the Athabasca River from its start in the mountains, along the river's main course, winding past oil sands development areas as it picks up an imaginary drop of oil. Through the film, Lavallee brings to light the threats to the third largest watershed in the world and two oceans brought on by oil sands mining.
The films show at 7:30 p.m. with admission by donation. The church address is 43 Dogwood Ave.
On April 24, look for the film, The 11th Hour, created, produced and narrated by movie actor, Leonardo DiCaprio. It looks at what the global community is facing due to environmental decay and offers solutions for restoring distressed ecosystems.
"We're so disconnected from the natural world and that's why we're having troubles," says Spencer.
The final film, Home, runs on May 22. Full of breathtaking cinematography, it focuses on the creation of life on Earth and how humans have changed it. Solutions are given for the prevention of self-destruction.
"All of the films present huge challenges and all propose solutions at the end, and that aspect was important to us in choosing them," says Spencer.
Each screening will close with a discussion and refreshments.
"Specifically, we hope to raise awareness about climate change, peak oil and rising fuel prices, food security, and biodiversity loss, so that our community can better respond to the challenges of the future."