In an era where the health of our planet is under constant scrutiny, documentaries that delve into ecological monitoring provide not only a window into the state of our environment but also inspire action and awareness. This curated list of 10 documentaries offers viewers an in-depth look at how scientists, activists, and communities are tracking, understanding, and responding to environmental changes. From the depths of the oceans to the vastness of space, these films capture the essence of ecological monitoring, making them invaluable for anyone interested in the future of our planet.

The 11th Hour (2007)
Description: Narrated by Leonardo DiCaprio, this documentary features interviews with experts discussing the state of the environment and the need for ecological monitoring to address global issues.
Fact: The film was produced by Leonardo DiCaprio's production company, Appian Way.


An Inconvenient Truth (2006)
Description: Al Gore's presentation on global warming includes discussions on the monitoring of climate change, making it a pivotal film in environmental awareness.
Fact: The film won two Academy Awards, including Best Documentary Feature.


The Cove (2009)
Description: While primarily focused on dolphin hunting, "The Cove" also highlights the ecological monitoring of marine life, showing how human activities affect ocean ecosystems.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in


Chasing Ice (2012)
Description: This film follows photographer James Balog as he captures the world's changing glaciers, providing a visual testament to the impacts of climate change on our planet's ice caps.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Before My Time" by J. Ralph featuring Scarlett Johansson.


Before the Flood (2016)
Description: Leonardo DiCaprio travels the world to explore the impacts of climate change, showcasing the importance of ecological monitoring in understanding and combating these effects.
Fact: The film was produced by National Geographic and directed by Fisher Stevens.


Blue Planet II (2017)
Description: This series from the BBC uses cutting-edge technology to monitor and reveal the wonders of the ocean, emphasizing the importance of marine ecological monitoring.
Fact: It was the most watched natural history series in the UK since records began.


The Human Element (2018)
Description: Photographer James Balog returns with a new focus on how human activity affects the environment, emphasizing the need for ecological monitoring to understand these impacts.
Fact: The film was inspired by Balog's book "Tree: A New Vision of the American Forest."


The Age of Consequences (2016)
Description: This documentary examines how climate change impacts national security, with a focus on the monitoring of environmental changes and their geopolitical consequences.
Fact: It features interviews with military and security experts.


Virunga (2014)
Description: Set in the Democratic Republic of Congo, this documentary explores the efforts to protect Virunga National Park, showcasing the importance of ecological monitoring in wildlife conservation.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.


Earth: One Amazing Day (2017)
Description: This film captures the daily life of animals around the world, showcasing the intricate ecological monitoring required to understand their behaviors and habitats.
Fact: Narrated by Robert Redford, the film was a collaboration between BBC Earth and Silverback Films.
