Watch Our Common Roots

Our Common Roots is a heartwarming and educational documentary released in 2012. The film's primary focus is on biodiversity and the importance of preserving it for future generations. The documentary is set in Canada, and it features a diverse cast of experts who provide insight on the biodiversity of the country's ecosystems. Ron Bell, a renowned environmentalist, leads the project, and he visits different regions of Canada to explore the various plant and animal species that call these regions home.

Chad Cornell, a conservation biologist, provides scientific expertise throughout the film. He emphasizes the importance of protecting biodiversity and highlights the potential consequences of failing to do so. Marjolaine Forest-axford, a botanist, talks about the unique plant species found in Canada and the role they play in the region's ecosystems. Finally, Lama Karma Tsundulp Lodro, a Buddhist monk, provides a philosophical perspective on the importance of living in harmony with nature.

The film starts with an introduction to the concept of biodiversity and its significance in maintaining the earth's balance. The experts talk about the interconnectedness of all living organisms and how the loss of even one species can have a lasting impact on the entire ecosystem. It emphasizes the fact that a diverse ecosystem is vital for human survival, as it provides us with food, water, and other resources necessary for life.

The film then proceeds to take the audience on a journey across Canada through different regions, exploring the various ecosystems and their unique biodiversity. We see the importance of preserving the evergreen forests of the Pacific Northwest, the wetlands found in the Prairies, and the vast tundra of the Arctic.

Throughout the film, the various experts provide details about the different species of plants and animals found in each region. They explain how these organisms have adapted to their environment and how their survival is critical for overall ecosystem health. The audience learns about threatened species like the sage grouse, whose populations have declined due to habitat loss and fragmentation.

The film takes viewers on a journey through the mountains of British Columbia, where they learn about the unique alpine ecosystems and the many species that call it home. We see how climate change has impacted these regions and the steps being taken to mitigate the effects.

One of the most powerful aspects of the film is the interviews with Indigenous people who have lived for centuries alongside these ecosystems. They share their traditional knowledge and the ways in which they have always lived in harmony with nature. The film emphasizes the importance of incorporating this knowledge into modern conservation management.

Overall, Our Common Roots is a thought-provoking and inspiring documentary that highlights the importance of protecting biodiversity. The film successfully captures the beauty and immense value of Canada's ecosystems while also showcasing the work that needs to be done to ensure their continued existence. Through the voices of experts and Indigenous people, the film serves as a reminder of our responsibility to protect these ecosystems for future generations.