Sigourney Weaver Teams With Planet Green for Ocean Acidification Documentary

Planet Green World Premiere Documentary ACID TEST, Featuring Sigourney Weaver, Uncovers the ‘Other Carbon Problem’ – the Startling Threat Facing Today’s Oceans

Planet Green announced the world premiere of ACID TEST: THE GLOBAL CHALLENGE OF OCEAN ACIDIFICATION on Wednesday, August 12 at 10:30PM ET. Featuring narration and commentary by actress Sigourney Weaver, ACID TEST is a groundbreaking documentary produced by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) that explores the startling phenomenon of ocean acidification, which may soon challenge the survival of thousands of marine species.

“The other carbon problem,” as many scientists refer to our oceans’ changing chemistry, is at the center of this revealing documentary. Carbon dioxide pollution is the primary cause of global warming, but it also is making ocean water more acidic. Since the industrial revolution, the ocean has absorbed a quarter of all the carbon dioxide emissions produced by burning fossil fuels — causing a 30% increase in ocean acidity. What does this mean for life in the ocean? It’s a matter of chemistry, and when acidity gets too high, the shells of sea creatures dissolve, threatening the entire ocean food web.

Such conditions haven’t existed since the extinction of the dinosaurs, and the recreation of those conditions so quickly is leaving many ocean animals unable to adapt. Society can take steps to ensure the health of the oceans, but time is running out. ACID TEST reveals to viewers why it is critical to take action now, and how people can become part of the solution in securing a healthier future for the world’s oceans and humankind.

ACID TEST makes its debut within Planet Green’s special programming event, Blue August, a robust month of on-air and online content that brings to life the wonders and mysteries of all things aquatic — from the majesty of our oceans to the critical issue of clean drinking water. Hosted by prominent conservationists and explorers Philippe and Alexandra Cousteau, Blue August features awe-inspiring documentaries including the network premiere of the Blue Planet series. In addition to ACID TEST, Planet Green will also premiere a special episode of FOCUS EARTH WITH BOB WOODRUFF on Wednesday, August 12 at 10PM ET that examines the state of our oceans and freshwater systems.

Blue August also features innovative and entertaining short-form content and commentary from world renowned partners and experts on PlanetGreen.com and TreeHugger.com to captivate and immerse audiences in a world of intrigue, real-life drama and the important choices that will shape our future. In addition to NRDC, Ocean Conservancy, Oceana and the United Nations Environment Programme have joined Planet Green for the month-long initiative.

ACID TEST: THE GLOBAL CHALLENGE OF OCEAN ACIDIFICATION premieres on Wednesday, August 12 at 10:30PM ET on Planet Green. ACID TEST was produced by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) for Planet Green, and directed by Daniel Hinerfeld and Tristan Bayer.