Did you know that as of June 2023, chemical companies in the United States have reached significant settlements? They’ve paid hundreds of millions of dollars to public water suppliers for PFAS contamination. These alarming figures underscore the urgency of addressing environmental pollutants that are infiltrating our ecosystems and bodies.

From toxic “forever chemicals” in our drinking water to rising plastic pollution, recent films have raised awareness. Documentaries further emphasize that these issues signal a deepening environmental crisis. 

Over the past year, a wave of new releases has tackled major environmental threats, highlighting the urgent need for change. These films don’t just expose problems. They challenge viewers to rethink their relationship with nature and demand better policies from governments and corporations. 

Here’s a look at some compelling films and documentaries that aim at making viewers aware of critical environmental issues. Some of the most compelling topics include PFAS contamination, microplastics, and toxic chemicals in food and water.

Plastic Earth (2023) 

Narrated by Rob Riggle, Plastic Earth explores the overwhelming plastic crisis plaguing our planet. More than just a warning, this documentary focuses on innovative solutions. It showcases scientists, activists, and entrepreneurs working on groundbreaking technologies to reduce plastic waste, notes Earth Day. 

As microplastics infiltrate our oceans, food, and bodies, the film poses an urgent question. Is there a way out of this mess, or is plastic pollution beyond our control? 

The Poison in Us All (2023)

The Poison in Us All is a Bloomberg Originals documentary. It reveals the dangers of PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” which have contaminated drinking water, household products, and even human blood. The film highlights the severe health risks faced by communities in the Faroe Islands and Minnesota due to prolonged exposure. 

A major contributor to this contamination is the Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF). It is a firefighting solution linked to cancer and widespread water pollution. As affected communities push for justice, the AFFF lawsuit settlement amounts become crucial. They underscore the need for stronger regulations and corporate accountability.

Troubled Waters: PFAS on Spokane’s West Plains (2023)

This investigative documentary focuses on Spokane’s West Plains, one of the most PFAS-contaminated regions in the United States. It explores the decades-long use of PFAS-laden firefighting foam at Fairchild Air Force Base and Spokane International Airport. The documentary further shows how these chemicals have seeped into groundwater, affecting thousands of residents. 

With first-hand accounts from impacted families and environmental experts, Troubled Waters paints a picture of industrial negligence and governmental inaction. 

Poisoned: The Dirty Truth About Your Food (2023) 

While not exclusively an environmental film, Poisoned highlights the connections between food contamination and environmental negligence, notes Food Safety Magazine. From E. coli outbreaks to a lack of transparency in food safety, the documentary exposes systemic issues. These problems often originate from polluted water sources and industrial farming practices. 

The film is a stark reminder that our health is directly tied to how we treat the environment. 

Rising Tides (2023)

The film explores the escalating threat of rising sea levels. It focuses on the resilience and adaptation strategies of coastal communities across the globe. Directed with a keen eye, the documentary provides an in-depth look at how different regions are confronting the challenges.

Viewers are introduced to a range of measures, from the construction of sea walls and elevated structures to community relocation initiatives. The documentary emphasizes the importance of local knowledge and grassroots activism in driving effective responses to environmental challenges.

Special Investigation: Dangerous Chemicals in Compost (2023)

Most people assume that composting is an eco-friendly practice. However, this Montana PBS special reveals a truth: PFAS chemicals are present in sludge-based compost used in agriculture and home gardens. The film investigates how these hazardous substances find their way into compost, ultimately contaminating soil and food. 

By exposing this little-known issue, the documentary challenges viewers to rethink what “organic” and “sustainable” really mean in modern agriculture. 

Why These Films Matter More Than Ever 

What makes these documentaries so crucial is their ability to transform complex environmental problems into relatable, urgent stories. They force us to confront the uncomfortable reality that pollution is not a distant problem. It’s in our drinking water, our food, and even in our blood. 

Governments and corporations have long downplayed the severity of these environmental hazards, but as public awareness grows, change becomes possible. 

TruLaw reports that lawsuits over PFAS contamination, including the AFFF legal battle, have exposed responsible industries. They highlight how these industries have polluted water supplies and endangered public health. These films serve as tools for advocacy, education, and action, giving audiences the knowledge they need to push for environmental protection. 

FAQs

Why are PFAS chemicals called “forever chemicals”?

PFAS chemicals do not disintegrate naturally in the human body or environment, implying they persist for decades. This persistence is due to their unique chemical structure, which includes strong carbon-fluorine bonds. The long-lasting nature of such chemicals makes them incredibly difficult to remove from water, soil, and even our bloodstream.

What is the biggest takeaway from these environmental documentaries?

The biggest takeaway from these films is the urgent call to action they present in addressing global environmental issues. Such films highlight the impacts of human activity on the planet—ranging from plastic pollution to the destruction of coral reefs. However, they even emphasize the scope for positive transition through informed and concerted efforts.

What can individuals do to reduce exposure to PFAS and microplastics?

Avoid products with non-stick coatings, and fast food packaging, which often contain PFAS. Regular testing of water sources for PFAS can further help in assessing and mitigating exposure risks. To reduce microplastic intake, choose glass or stainless steel over plastic containers and filter drinking water with high-quality filtration systems.

If you care about the future of our planet—and your own health—these films are must-watches. Besides educating viewers, they also inspire action. It is through advocating for policy changes, reducing plastic consumption, or supporting sustainable food sources. As filmmakers continue to expose environmental injustices, it’s up to us to listen, learn, and demand change. 

Have you watched any of these documentaries? Share your thoughts, and let’s start the conversation!