World's First Broadband Environmental TV Channel Launches

04/04/2006

The world's first broadband TV channel dedicated to environmental issues � called �green.tv' and developed with support from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) � is being launched today aiming to become a one-stop shop of broadcast information on the environment covering everything from climate change to children's stories on wildlife.

UNEP said green.tv would also go live today as a podcast on iTunes as well as having a front-page listing courtesy of Apple computers. It will carry films from around the world produced by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) community filmmakers public sector bodies and companies with a firm interest in protecting the environment.

“Green.tv is a truly innovative project which will no doubt influence the field of environmental film-making and research. It will eventually offer a comprehensive ‘one stop shop’ for environmental TV programming – something that has so far not been available” said Eric Falt Director of UNEP’s Division of Communications and Public Information.

“Green.tv has the potential to become a broadband reference point or benchmark in this field.” It will have seven channels covering: air land water climate change people species and technologies in each of which there will be a feature a news item and a children’s story. With the look and feel of a global TV channel green.tv will combine this with the best elements of the internet giving users access to online chatrooms and the ability to watch video on demand UNEP said.

Director/Producer Ade Thomas who first thought up the idea compared it to the popular Google search engine. “If you want to see a news item about climate change watch a kids’ story about penguins or a feature about wind farms go to www.green.tv and you'll be able to see some engaging and thought-provoking films about the environment at a time when a greater understanding and awareness of these issues is critical” the Director/Producer said. On launch the channel will show films from numerous environmental and other organizations including UNEP Friends of the Earth UK Greenpeace International the World Conservation Union-IUCN Stop Climate Chaos Barclays Water Aid and the European Environment Agency.

In welcoming green.tv UK Environment Minister Elliot Morley said its hi-tech nature would give it great potential to spread the message at a time when increasing numbers of people wanted to find out more about the environment. “There are more people using the internet than watching TV and we also know that there is enormous interest in environmental issues. I think green.tv has tremendous potential bringing together new technology and innovation in terms of how we spread information” Mr. Elliot said.