7 Best Environmental Documentaries on Netflix

Even eco-warriors need a day off from saving the planet! While the Sustainable Living Society loves finding ways to actively reduce consumption and positively impact the environment, it is important to find time to relax and reflect. There is so much incredible content on Netflix to help our members stay informed on everything concerning the environment. Considering we are all students here and always love a Netflix binge, we figured we would create a list of our favorite documentaries available for the earth-saving enthusiast.

Add them to your watch list and let us know what you think!

1. David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet

Attenborough never disappoints. A society favourite, A Life on our Planet recounts the revolutionary history of life on earth. Attenborough clues us into the negative effects mankind has had on our population and offers a vision for the future.

2. Kiss the Ground

Science Experts and Woody Harrelson unpack how the world's soil may be vital to combating climate change. Captivating and informational, this documentary inspires participation in global regeneration, starting with the dirt beneath our feet. Find out more about their mission here!

3. Mission Blue

Want to learn more about the world's oceans and the impact we have on them? This documentary is perfect for you! It was the inspiration behind our annual Leave No Trace surf and beach clean up event. Oceanographer, Sylvia Earle's mission is to increase public awareness of threats of overfishing and toxic waste and pollution.

4. Down to Earth

Hosted by Zac Efron and Daren Olien, this docuseries travel far and wide to find the world's most sustainable living systems and green energy sources. From Iceland to Costa Rica, this light-hearted series aims to bring awareness to the interesting sustainable practices being adopted all over the world.

5. Minimalism

Minimalism sheds light on the idea that things cannot buy happiness. Through this, Joshua Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus demonstrate the concept of minimal consumption and its importance both for yourself and for the Earth.

6. Blackfish

Staring Tilikum, an orca whale held at SeaWorld, Blackfish describes the controversy of holding killer whales captive. Captured in 1983, Tilikum was moved to SeaWorld which consequently resulted in the death of three people. This documentary will change the way you look at captive animals and might make you think twice about visiting aquariums and zoos in the future.

7. Cowspiracy

If you are not already vegetarian or vegan, this documentary might just change that. Known as the film that "farm factories don't want you to see", this doc will leave you shook. Factory farming is decimating the planet, but environmental groups have largely ignored this crisis. A must watch!

If you get a chance to watch these documentaries, leave us a comment and tell us what you thought! If you feel inspired why not sign up for one of our many events here.

Thanks for reading! We are here to unite and elicit positive change in the world. Together we can learn a thing or two about environmentally friendly living and strive to make an impact with smart sustainable choices. If you enjoy what you read or have suggestions on topics you’d like to discuss next, leave us a comment! If you haven’t joined already, sign up to the Sustainable Living Society HERE. We look forward to creating a community of like-minded eco-warriors together! If you enjoyed what you read, why not sign up for our weekly newsletter!