3 Must-Watch Documentaries On Environmental Health
"Can you recommend one documentary, book, or podcast that has inspired you to take action on environmental health? What is one key takeaway from this resource?" Here is what 3 thought leaders have to say.
- Urgency of Individual Action
- Importance of Conscious Consumption
- Collaboration and Compassion for Change
Urgency of Individual Action
One documentary that left a big impact on me regarding environmental health is Before the Flood, featuring Leonardo DiCaprio. This film offers a powerful look at the effects of climate change around the world and highlights how interconnected our actions are with environmental health.
The biggest takeaway for me was realizing the urgency of individual action and advocacy. It inspired me to start making personal lifestyle changes-like reducing plastic use and supporting sustainable brands-and it's a reminder that we all have a role in protecting our planet.

Importance of Conscious Consumption
One inspiring documentary that made a profound impact on me is The True Cost. This film explores the environmental and human toll of fast fashion, highlighting how our everyday consumption choices affect the planet and its people. It delves into the massive waste, pollution, and exploitation often overlooked by consumers, encouraging viewers to rethink their habits.
The most powerful takeaway from The True Cost is the importance of conscious consumption. After watching it, I became more mindful about sustainable choices—not just in what I buy, but also in my everyday practices. It's a reminder that small actions add up, and as consumers, we have the power to support more sustainable practices by being mindful of the products we choose and the brands we support.
Overall, The True Cost serves as a call to action, urging individuals and communities to advocate for sustainability and transparency. It's eye-opening and motivating, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in environmental health.

Collaboration and Compassion for Change
David Katz's 2018 TED Talk, "The Surprising Solution to Ocean Plastic," was a true lightbulb moment for me. Katz introduced the idea of monetizing waste by empowering the communities most impacted by it. Hearing his vision filled me with hope that the world could finally make strides toward a sustainable future. The idea of using funds from polluting companies to both clean up and uplift affected communities through pollution collection and recycling felt like a triple win—for the environment, for business, and for society.
Inspired by this vision, I pursued a career path focused on business development, sales, and marketing for companies with sustainability at their core. Ultimately, I even had the honor of working with David himself, which deepened my appreciation for his message. From that TED Talk onward, one crucial lesson has stuck with me: collaboration and compassion are the keys to creating lasting, meaningful change. These principles have guided my work and continue to fuel my passion for sustainable business solutions.
