Bullfrog Films
11 minutes
Study Guide
Grades 7-12, College, Adult

Directed by Sharon Howard and Mike Rosen
Produced by Howard Rosen Productions

DVD Purchase $79, Rent $45

US Release Date: 2000
Copyright Date: 1999
DVD ISBN: 1-59458-429-X
VHS ISBN: 1-56029-846-4

Subjects
Animals
Biodiversity
Biology
Consumerism
Ecology
Endangered Species
Environmental Ethics
Global Issues
Habitat
Life Science
Outdoor Education
Pollution
Population
Social Psychology
Voluntary Simplicity
Wildlife

Awards and Festivals
5 Emmy Awards
Gold Hugo, Chicago International Television Competition
Best of Category , Best Educational Value, Best Scientific Content and Best Conservation Message, International Wildlife Film Festival, Missoula
UNESCO Silver Medal, The New York Festivals
Best of Category, EarthVision Environmental Film & Video Festival
Best Graphic Design, International Monitor Awards
Bronze Anvil Award, Public Relations Society of America
Equinox Environmental Film Festival
Environmental Film Festival in the Nation's Capital
Olympia Environmental Film Festival
SAVVY Award
Natural Connections Series
Biodiversity vs. Extinction

Mass extinction of species can be stopped if we understand the importance of biodiversity.

"Riveting and startling, but, more important, congenial, considerate and convincing." Seattle Post-Intelligencer

Edward O. Wilson, known as the "father of biodiversity", explains the significance of the mass extinction of species taking place around the planet today -- the sixth the earth has seen in its long history. The difference between this one and the previous five is that this one is induced by humans.

HIPPO is the acronym that succinctly sums up the major factors contributing to this extinction. H stands for habitat destruction, I for the introduction of exotic species, P for pollution, another P for population growth, and O for over-consumption.

If we begin to embrace the earth more as a community to which we belong, rather than a commodity belonging to us, we might begin to cherish our natural connections and help our own survival.

Other programs in the series are:

Introduction to Biodiversity - The concept of biological diversity and its importance to humans.

The Significance of Salmon - Salmon and people both need clean water to survive. Can we make the connection?

Keystone Species - The principle of keystone species proves the interconnectedness of the living world.

Forests, Biodiversity and You - Can forests retain their productivity and biodiversity? Consuming less ourselves is key.

Web Page: http://www.bullfrogfilms.com/catalog/nat5.html

Reviews
"Astonishingly beautiful documentary...With gorgeous photography, straightforward writing and enthusiastic participation by scientists who don't come off as pedants...a wake-up call that is riveting and startling, but, more important, congenial, considerate and convincing."

Seattle Post-Intelligencer

"A beautifully produced and effective piece."
Edward O. Wilson, Honorary Curator of Entomology, Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard University, and author of Biophilia and The Diversity of Life

"This video...is an invaluable teaching tool. There are dozens of films on the market that address the environmental and biodiversity problems we are currently facing. Natural Connections may have an edge because it will appeal to all age groups. Highly recommended for public, school and college libraries."
Barb Butler, Oregon Institute of Marine Biology, MC Journal

"Superb photography, eloquent narration, and stirring interviews with biologists combine to make this Emmy Award winner perhaps the best video I have ever seen to make the case for the preservation of biodiversity. This dramatic video should be required viewing for all students teachers, parents, politicians, business leaders, consumers...Most highly recommended for viewers from about grade 6 or 7 through adults. Schools, nature centers, camps, and even individuals will value this video."
Dan R. Kunkle, Wildlife Activist Magazine