Discovery launches first "ecotainment" channel (Planet Green)

Rooters ^ | 6-3-08 | Kimberly Nordyke

[rightinthemiddle]

LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - Could "green" become a new watchword in TV programming?

While the media companies have long been touting everything they're doing behind the scenes to become more environment-friendly, the message increasingly is seeping into their programming.

On Wednesday, Discovery Communications launches the first 24/7 eco-friendly network, Planet Green, which will take over the space occupied by Discovery Home Channel. That follows NBC Universal's second companywide "Green Week" in April -- featuring 100 hours of green-themed content airing across 42 NBC Universal brands and 28 Web sites -- with two more already planned for November and April.

Planet Green will launch with more than 250 hours of original programming, featuring a range of name talent in front of and behind the camera, including Leonardo DiCaprio, celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse, rocker Tommy Lee and rapper Ludacris. It officially kicks off at 6 p.m. with the entertainment newsmagazine "Hollywood Green With Maria Menounos," followed by the Tom Bergeron-hosted "Supper Club."

Planet Green president and GM Eileen O'Neill said it's the perfect time to launch an eco-friendly channel.

"Now is a critical time in our planet's health," she said. "There is a rally cry out there, and now we're really going to bring it into viewers' own homes to be the inspiration for them to make changes around their household and lifestyle."

[Lokibob]

Somebody please tell me why conservatives are so anti environment. I am totally confused.

When I go fishing, I pick up my trash and the trash I see other (I guess conservatives) leave on the banks. I do not want a reward for it, it just makes me feel better that I can make a little difference.

I use, and have used for many years low wattage light bulbs, not for environmental purposes, but because they are cheaper on the wallet.

I use rechargeable batteries in all my stuff, not because of the environment (although that is a plus), but because it is cheaper than disposable batteries. I would guess I have saved close to $500 over the last 5 years using rechargeables.

A green channel will be welcomed by me, because of the information it will contain. I have a magic button on my remote that allows me to change the channels if a show does not catch my interest.

I guess the conservative movement is dedicated to screwing up the earth, based on remarks on this thread. Pigs live in their own filth.

.....Bob

[Gator113]

I am doing everything that I can to become Green.

I never burn plastic or old 3-tab roofing shingles unless there is thick fog.

I never bury garbage on my property below the groundwater level.

Instead of using harsh chemicals to control weeds and wild blackberry brush, I use old motor oil...after all, it came from the ground, so I figure I am helping future generations with their oil needs.

Dog droppings go into the county ditch near where the damn liberal democrat California transplant lives. He’s never complained of the smell, but in all honesty, I think I scare him.

Anytime I need to dump the septic tank on my boat, I take a quick trip into Canadian waters.....they have always been green, they can afford a little pollution.

Ok....I really don’t do any of that, but the more the Gore-Nuts try to force their fantasy on us, and the longer it takes those clowns in Washington to DRILL for friggen oil, the more they risk that ornery folks like me are going to ignore ANYTHING they say.

[G Larry]

It’s great scenery to view in HD, WITH THE SOUND OFF!!!

[Nowhere Man]

Since nature abhors a vacuum, and the socialists/marxists have done their uttermost to undermine traditional Christianity, they must offer something else for humanity to worship—so one of their choices is Mother Gaia. For those for whom that’s too impersonal, they now offer Obamassiah. Something for everyone-as long as it’s not the God of the living Word.

I always like to use this line on them, "I'm an atheist, I don't believe in Gaia." If course I believe in God and His Son but still I just love using my atheist line on the greenies. >B-)

[proud_yank]

I guess the conservative movement is dedicated to screwing up the earth, based on remarks on this thread. Pigs live in their own filth.

I see where your sentiments come from, but disagree with that remark. Being opposed to main stream environmentalists is not the same as being anti-environment. When you look at the cause/effect relationship of enviro/lib/socialist policies, they are very damaging environmentally.

Honestly, I think it would be a huge win for Rush and conservatives to explain and show how harmful their policies are, and the inefficiencies they create in industry, day to day activity, and life in general.

I am an avid outdoorsman, and too pick up trash when outside, am very aware to turn off lights, etc. As an engineer, trying to maintain integrity in equipment and enhance efficiency have both financial and environmental value.

I won't however listen to someone like algor, Barbra Streisand & all the rest preach to me that I need to tune down my lifestyle and tell me I shouldn't be allowed to do or have the things I enjoy.

[Born Conservative]

Can we earn carbon credits for watching any of their programs?

[ProtectOurFreedom]

...a lot of great content that’s very diverse... Who's he trying to kid? How many ways can you tell the "reduce, recycle, reuse" meme? I saw a promo for some stupid show the other night where some "green" lunatic comes into your home, plops down recycling containers and trains you how to be green. Had to be the most banal thing I've ever seen. But it will probably fit the current generation of empty skulls just fine.

[rightinthemiddle]

Dear Bob,

There is a HUGE difference between common sense conservation and enviorwackyism.

The Environmental movement a tool of the Left to stifle capitalism, enact restrictions on free markets and level the global “playing field.” The points made on this thread are correct: You give these people ANY concessions, they will take control of our lives.

I am an outdoorsman and a conservationist, as are most conservatives. You are being naive.

[sheik yerbouty]

False teachings from the Goracle and his adoring minions of Gorons!

[GregB]

From hero to zero...this channel sucks BIG TIME!!!!!Still have HGTV DIY.....Hey lets do a conservative home channel!!!