Big Ideas for a Small Planet (Sundance Channel)

In the documentary series BIG IDEAS FOR A SMALL PLANET, which airs as part of Sundance Channel's environmentally focused "The Green" programming block, each episode focuses on a single area of environmental interest, such as fuel, clothing, or housing. A regular cast of experts and a rotating pool of activists, entrepreneurs, and thinkers comment on and explore each featured topic. For example, the fuel episode profiles several folks involved in alternative-fuel projects -- like a struggling small-business owner from Southern California who installs second fuel tanks in diesel vehicles so they can run on vegetable oil. Another entrepreneur connects car buyers with biodiesel-ready vehicles, and a race-car driver talks about why he drives an ethanol-powered car.

The exhortations to get involved in evironmental activism that accompany the individual profiles (along with expert commentary) are optimistic, inspiring, and often funny. Commentators are attractive, well-spoken, and witty -- which, along with the show's jump-cut editing and hip, uplifting music -- creates a program that's attractive to younger viewers without feeling overly pedantic.

But Big Ideas for a Small Planet clearly has a message, and those looking for absolute objectivity won't find it here. And some lighthearted cursing and product tie-ins make it a show that parents might want to watch with their kids -- or at least check in about.