Discovery Project Earth (Discovery Channel)

DISCOVERY PROJECT EARTH follows the members of an environmental task force as they travel around the world assisting leading scientists combat the effects of global warming. The three experts -- engineer Jennifer L. Langwell, businessman/billionaire Kevin O'Leary, and quantum physicist Basil Singer -- help geoengineers, glacierologists, oceanographers, and others test ambitious, high-tech ideas (like covering glaciers in Greenland with reflective blankets to keep them from melting, or somehow converting ocean winds into electricity) that are designed to solve some of the planet's biggest environmental problems. The trio must find practical ways of implementing the scientists' radical ideas while simultaneously measuring the actual financial and environmental impact of executing the plans on a global scale.

This informative series candidly addresses global warming as a major and immediate crisis. But it goes beyond simply describing the problem (and its potential calamitous effects, i.e. natural disasters) by showing how scientists and other experts are actively working to develop and test creative solutions that merge technology with nature. While the success of some of the projects is exciting, team members also acknowledge that implementing them could cause new problems -- like creating large carbon footprints and requiring governments to come up with billions of dollars to pay for them. It also recognizes the danger that scientists sometimes face when applying technology to fight global warming.

Some of the science-oriented conversation -- as well as the continual references to environmental crisis and natural disasters -- may be a bit overwhelming or even scary for young and/or sensitive viewers. But overall Discovery Project Earth offers some important lessons for both kids and adults that go beyond science. The series shows viewers that sometimes it's necessary to think outside the box and be willing to try things that might seem strange or impossible. And it reminds us of how important it is to keep looking for solutions to problems that can seem too massive to solve.

TV Rating: TV-PG
Network: Discovery Channel
Cast: Basil Singer, Jennifer L. Langwell, Kevin O'Leary
Genre: Educational
Where to watch: Discovery Channel