Ecoists

Watch Ecoists

  • 2007

Ecoists is a television show that has aired on the Sundance Channel for a few seasons now. This program aims to highlight and celebrate individuals and organizations across the globe that are making a positive impact on the environment through their work and practices.

Each episode of Ecoists focuses on a particular eco-hero or eco-organization, showcasing their journey and the ways in which they have made a difference in their communities or in the world at large. The show takes viewers on a journey to various locations around the world, from small rural towns to bustling urban centers, showcasing inspiring stories of people who are working to create a more sustainable future.

One of the key strengths of Ecoists is its focus on diversity and inclusivity. The show shines a spotlight on eco-activists from a wide array of backgrounds- people of color, women, LGBTQ individuals, and those from traditionally marginalized or underrepresented communities. By doing so, the show helps to highlight the intersectionality of environmentalism and the ways in which this movement touches and impacts people from all walks of life.

Another strength of the program is its emphasis on solutions-based storytelling. Rather than simply highlighting the negative impacts of climate change, pollution, and other environmental issues, Ecoists showcases the people and organizations working to create real change. By focusing on what is possible and the progress being made, rather than just the problems at hand, the show offers a sense of hope and inspiration to viewers.

The production of Ecoists is also notable for its visually stunning cinematography. The program often features sweeping shots of natural landscapes or bustling cities, as well as capturing the hard work of individuals and organizations in action. This attention to detail and visual storytelling helps to bring the stories to life and further engage viewers.

One of the most impactful episodes of Ecoists features the story of a group of young activists from Standing Rock, North Dakota. These individuals, largely members of the Sioux tribe, were at the forefront of the resistance against the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) in 2016. They came together to defend their land, water, and people against the destructive project and to demand that their voices be heard in the fight against climate change.

The episode documents the story of these activists, showing not only the physical blockade of the pipeline but also the prayer ceremonies, community building, and deep connection to the land that fueled their movement. The episode offers a poignant reminder of the power of grassroots activism and the ways in which small groups of individuals can make a massive impact.

Another episode features the work of the ECO2LIBRIUM project, an organization based in rural Kenya that is working to promote sustainable development through the use of clean energy solutions. The episode showcases the challenges faced by rural communities in accessing energy and the ways in which ECO2LIBRIUM is tackling these challenges through initiatives like solar power, biogas, and clean cookstoves. The story offers a valuable lesson in the power of innovation and the importance of finding sustainable solutions that work for all people.

Throughout its run, Ecoists has received praise for its focus on celebrating positivity and solutions in the face of the overwhelming challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation. By highlighting inspiring stories of people making a difference, the show offers a glimmer of hope in a world that often feels overwhelming. Its inclusive and diverse approach to storytelling helps to bring more voices to the conversation about environmentalism and underscores the ways in which this movement affects us all.