Watch A Plastic Whale

A Plastic Whale is a 2017 documentary film that examines the impact of plastic pollution on the world's oceans and marine life. The film follows whale biologist Dr. Ben Garrod and wildlife cameraman Tom Fitz on a journey to better understand the effects of plastic waste on whale populations in the waters around the UK. The documentary begins by highlighting the staggering amount of plastic that is produced and discarded around the world each year. We see footage of bags, bottles, and other everyday items floating in the ocean, polluting the water and putting marine animals at risk. The filmmakers also explore the ways in which plastic can break down into smaller particles that are consumed by small organisms and smaller fish, which are then eaten by larger fish and marine mammals, including whales.

To gain a better understanding of how plastic pollution affects whales, Garrod and Fitz embark on a search for minke whales in the waters around the UK. They collect tissue samples and perform biopsies to analyze the amount of plastic in the whales' bodies. The results are shocking: the whales have significant amounts of plastic in their systems, including particles from plastic bags and fishing gear.

The film also explores the impact of plastic waste on other marine animals, including sea turtles and seals. Footage of these creatures entangled in plastic and struggling to swim or breathe is both heartbreaking and disturbing.

In addition to showcasing the devastating effects of plastic pollution, A Plastic Whale also highlights some of the efforts to clean up our oceans and reduce plastic waste. The film takes us to a beach cleanup and introduces us to a community of people who are working to raise awareness about the issue and reduce their own plastic use. We also hear from researchers and scientists who are studying the problem and proposing solutions, such as using biodegradable materials and reducing single-use plastics.

Overall, A Plastic Whale is a powerful and eye-opening film that sheds light on an urgent environmental issue. The filmmakers do an excellent job of combining scientific information with compelling footage, making the issue of plastic pollution both accessible and emotionally resonant. The film is an important call to action, encouraging viewers to think more critically about their own plastic use and advocate for solutions at both the individual and policy level.

A Plastic Whale is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 46 minutes.