Legendary broadcaster and naturalist Sir David Attenborough, approaching his 99th birthday, has released what he describes as "one of the most important films of my life," titled "Ocean," which focuses on the critical role of the ocean in protecting biodiversity and tackling climate change. The documentary had its world premiere at the Royal Festival Hall in London, featuring a blue carpet event attended by numerous celebrities, including Chris Martin, Benedict Cumberbatch, Tim Peake, Geri Halliwell-Horner, and Simon Le Bon.
"After almost 100 years on the planet, I now understand that the most important place on Earth is not on land, but at sea," Attenborough stated in a trailer for the film. The renowned naturalist hopes that "Ocean" will awaken, move, and mobilize citizens and governments to take action for the recovery of marine ecosystems and the planet's future.
The documentary delves into the state of the world's oceans and how our understanding of them evolved throughout Attenborough's lifetime. It exposes destructive industrial fishing practices, including bottom trawling, which the film describes as an unprecedented threat to marine ecosystems. Bottom trawling not only kills marine life en masse but also releases huge quantities of carbon dioxide, accelerating global warming.
"What prevents me from falling into despair is what I call the most remarkable discovery of all: the fact that the oceans can recover faster than we ever imagined," Attenborough said, offering a message of hope amid alarming revelations. He emphasizes that if left alone, the oceans can not only recover but thrive beyond all expectations. "If we save the sea, we save the planet," he asserted.
The film also chronicles the catastrophic decline of marine life since 1957, a period during which Attenborough witnessed firsthand the degradation of the oceans. He recalls his first scuba dive on the Great Barrier Reef in 1957, saying, "I was so astonished by the sight that was before me, I forgot—for a moment—to breathe." Since then, the world's oceans have faced challenges, including mass coral reef bleaching events and the depletion of fish populations due to overfishing.
Despite these grim realities, "Ocean" presents success stories that serve as beacons of hope. The documentary recounts how the international ban on commercial whaling enacted in 1986, following immense public pressure, led to the rapid recovery of whale populations. "I remember thinking it was over. There was no way back; we had lost the great whales," Attenborough reflected. "And yet, they returned. If we leave them alone, nature finds a way to heal its wounds."
The film underscores the vital role of the ocean as humanity's greatest ally against climate change, portraying it as the planet's life support system. It presents a clear appeal to protect marine biodiversity, emphasizing that the oceans offer a ray of hope amid the concerns raised by environmental degradation. A healthier ocean ecosystem could also trap more carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate the effects of global warming.
"We are almost out of time," Attenborough warns. He believes that immediate and decisive action is necessary to preserve the oceans for future generations. The documentary urges countries to fulfill their pledges to protect one-third of the world's oceans, a commitment that could be transformative if honored.
The film's release comes ahead of crucial international discussions on ocean conservation. Attenborough hopes that his new film will motivate leaders to take meaningful action on these promises. "We have before us the chance to protect our climate, our food, our home," he stated.
"Ocean" does not shy away from criticizing current practices that harm marine environments. It shows how bottom trawling, despite its enormous destructiveness, is not only legal but actively encouraged by many governments. Trawlers often target a single species, leading to more than 75% of the catch being discarded, a practice Attenborough considers immensely wasteful.
Producer Toby Nowlan said that "Ocean" is "not a classic nature documentary" but delivers "the biggest message ever launched about the risks our planet faces." He explained that this new production is different from Attenborough's previous works, focusing more on the urgent need for action rather than solely observing natural behaviors.
Throughout his illustrious career, Attenborough has been a vocal advocate for the natural world, bringing the wonders of nature into countless homes and raising awareness about environmental issues. Even as he approaches his centenary, his passion and commitment remain undiminished. "Despite approaching the age of 99, Attenborough is still remarkably energetic," said Keith Scholey, one of the film's directors who has collaborated with Attenborough for 44 years. "He keeps us all on our toes. He is always creative."
The article was written with the assistance of a news analysis system.