In an era of climate urgency, storytelling has become one of the most powerful tools to inspire change. Films, particularly environmental and adventure documentaries, have the unique ability to stir emotions, shift perspectives, and ignite action. As 2025 unfolds, the role of films in driving environmental awareness has never been more crucial. From Coast Film Foundation features such as *Common Ground* and *Purple Mountains*, filmmakers are using their craft and voice to advocate for a more sustainable future.

The Power of Storytelling in Environmental Films: Inspiring Climate Action through Cinema

Stories have a unique ability to connect people to issues in a personal and compelling way. Facts and statistics are essential, but it is the human stories behind them that truly resonate. Adventure and environmental films bring audiences face-to-face with the beauty of the natural world while also revealing the urgent threats it faces. Through the lens of powerful characters and stunning cinematography, these films don’t just educate—they move people to act.

Over the years, documentaries and short films have played a significant role in environmental activism. Films like Chasing Ice (2012) and Before the Flood (2016) brought climate change to mainstream audiences, while Racing Extinction (2015) exposed the crisis of biodiversity loss. Now, in 2025, filmmakers are continuing this legacy with an even stronger focus on action and impact.

Environmental Documentary Film features from Coast Film Foundation

Common Ground: The Crucial Role of Regenerative Agriculture

Common Ground highlights the crucial role of regenerative agriculture in combatting climate change and revitalizing ecosystems. As a follow-up to the groundbreaking documentary Kiss the Ground, this film delves deeper into the ways soil health, sustainable farming practices, and community-driven agriculture can heal the planet.

Featured during the Coast Film & Music Festival's Summer Film Series at The Ecology Center in 2024, Common Ground brings together farmers, scientists, and activists to showcase solutions that can reverse environmental degradation. By telling the stories of those working on the front lines of regenerative agriculture, the film emphasizes the power of land stewardship and how consumers can support sustainable food systems.

Awards & Recognition:

Common Ground won the Making Waves award at the Coast Film & Music Festival in 2023.
Kiss the Ground was featured at the festival in 2021, where key voices like Ryland Engelhart (Co-Founder of Kiss the Ground) and Evan Marks (Founder of The Ecology Center) led impactful discussions. Check out the live Q&A >>

Purple Mountains - Live Free or Die: Jeremy Jones’ Call to Political and Environmental Change

Another film directed by Josh "Bones" Murphy, winner of the CFMF MacGillavry Freeman Environmental Filmmaker award, and features professional snowboarder, climate activist, and founder of Protect Our Winters, Jeremy Jones. Purple Mountains - Live Free or Die is an important story about finding unity around issues of the environment and climate and coming together to make a positive impact. While the first version was released in 2020, Purple Mountains remains relevant, particularly as climate policy continues to be a critical issue in the U.S. and beyond.

The film follows Jones as he continues his journey to bridge the political divide on climate action. By engaging with individuals across the ideological spectrum—he seeks to find shared values and advocate for pragmatic solutions. The film goes beyond the traditional adventure film format, proving that outdoor athletes have an important role to play in shaping policy and inspiring civic engagement.

Coast Film Foundation Film Grant Recipient

Coast Film Foundation is committed to supporting documentary filmmakers in telling stories that support our mission to entertain, educate, and inspire audiences and influence positive social and environmental change. Currently, we are raising funds for Purple Mountains - Live Free or Die, with a goal of securing $25,000 in donations from our partners and members to directly support this impactful project. Learn more about the Purple Mountains Film Grant >>

Highlights from Coast Film & Music Festival 2024

The Coast Film & Music Festival 2024 presented several powerful environmental films that are driving change:

Planetwalker (2024) – This documentary follows environmentalist John Francis, who spent decades traveling the world on foot to advocate for conservation. His journey demonstrates the power of individual action in protecting the planet.
Watch the film >>
Undammed (2024) – A thought-provoking exploration of river restoration, Undammed highlights the ecological and community benefits of dam removal. It showcases successful restoration projects that have revitalized fish populations and habitats.
Learn more about Patagonia’s film >>
Mama’s Sundry (2023) – This uplifting short documentary highlights a family-run urban farm transforming communities through sustainable agriculture and food justice. The film shows how local farming can combat food insecurity and reconnect people with nature.
Awards: Mama’s Sundry won Best Short Documentary Film at the Coast Film & Music Festival 2024. Learn more >>
Chasing Time (2024) – Spanning 15 years, Chasing Time follows the Extreme Ice Survey project led by photographer James Balog. The film presents compelling visual evidence of climate change by documenting the rapid melting of glaciers worldwide.
Learn more about Chasing Time and its prequel Chasing Ice >>

The Lasting Impact: Beyond the Screen

The power of environmental films extends far beyond the festival run. Many filmmakers and organizations are leveraging technology and social media to turn inspiration into tangible action. Interactive screenings, live discussions, and grassroots campaigns accompany many of these films, ensuring that audiences are not just passive viewers but active participants in the movement.

Furthermore, partnerships with conservation organizations and outdoor brands are amplifying the reach of these stories. Many brands recognize their responsibility in the fight against climate change and use their platforms to support films that align with their sustainability goals. This synergy between storytelling, activism, and corporate responsibility is making environmental messaging more widespread and effective than ever.

How You Can Help Amplify These Stories

As a community, we have the power to amplify these messages and turn inspiration into action. Here are some ways you can make a positive impact:

🌱 Share These Films – Use social media to spread the word about impactful environmental films. Tag friends, organizations, and brands that align with sustainability efforts.

🌱 Support Environmental Organizations – Many of the filmmakers collaborate with nonprofits and advocacy groups. Donating, volunteering, or even simply following their initiatives can help drive change.

🌱 Engage with Filmmakers and Activists – Follow and interact with filmmakers and featured activists on social media. Your engagement helps boost their reach and influence.

🌱 Vote and Advocate for Policy Change – Films like Purple Mountains emphasize the importance of civic engagement. Stay informed about environmental policies and support leaders who prioritize climate action.

Conclusion

Environmental films are more than just entertainment—they’re a catalyst for change. By combining stunning visuals with compelling human stories, these films bridge the gap between awareness and action. With support from communities, brands, and policymakers, their potential to drive meaningful impact will continue to grow.

Let’s amplify their messages and turn inspiration into action. Share these stories, support the causes they champion, and advocate for a better, more sustainable future!