date: Tue, 3 Sep 2002 12:10:51 +0100 from: J.H.Smith@open.ac.uk subject: BBC1 Weds 7pm Land Worth Loving to: m.hulme@uea.ac.uk, S.Torok@uea.ac.uk Dear Simon and Mike I thought you might be interested in a BBC1 primetime programme I've been involved with as consultant that tries to get sustainability issues (inc. climate change) across to mainstream viewers. A Land Worth Loving, (Transmission: Weds. Sept 4th 7.00pm) despite sounding like a Welsh daytime TV soap, is a very rare example of an attempt by a major broadcaster to reach a primetime audience with an understanding of the part ordinary people play in causing, and responding to, environmental issues. At the same time it offers up plenty of ideas as to how individuals and communities can do something about them. The BBC team behind the programme have done a fantastic job of making this difficult material into entertaining TV. A mix of observational documentary of three families trying to lead a greener life, of 'challenges' taken on by people in a street in Bristol, and funny deft short films that communicate some background information is all tied together by presenter, DIY TV star of the moment, Nick Knowles. Although the BBC1 Controller will not commit to a further programme until they see the ratings and other feedback, the idea is for the programme to be annual or biannual; building up a time series of documentary material over time (in the manner of 7UP, 14UP etc), and giving in-depth attention to different issues each time. Hence while this programme deals with household energy use and waste, a second might deal with transport and water. If you get to look at the programme or website I'd like to hear what you think. The Open University invested in the programme (the OU's first outing on BBC1 in 30 years) and the BBC/OU web team have put together a good website in support of the programme at www.open2.net/environment with plenty of further info, links and a couple of fun interactives. There's a poster available to download or request too. If you think the programme works don't hesitate to let the BBC1 Controller, Lorraine Heggessy know too.... Best wishes Joe Dr. Joe Smith Lecturer in Environmental Policy and Politics Faculty of Social Sciences The Open University, Walton Hall Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA OU office: 01908 659232 Home office: 20 Bateman Street Cambridge, CB2 1NB 01223 740135