ABSTRACT
Why are some people in Western society actively concerned with protecting nature and natural things, while others are not, and what motivates people in the first place to become involved in environmental protection? These are very complex and loaded questions that preoccupy environmental communication scholars and are difficult to answer. But by focusing on contemporary fictional film with their often engaging environmental themes and storylines, we can at least begin to explore some of the debates embedded within environmental protection and its related ethics. I will explore how mass audience films and their use of a creative imaginary, display a range of cautionary allegorical tales that help to promote greater awareness and debate concerning the central importance of environmental ethics for the very survival of our planet.
