Earth from Above

Traveling to Japan, Yann Arthus-Bertrand addresses waste and the overconsumption of food, electronics and other products by wealthy countries. The repercussions of excessive consumption are examined, including its significant -- and perhaps irreversible -- harm to the environment.

With the world's energy supplies dwindling, host Yann Arthus-Bertrand heads to the most oil-dependent country on Earth: the United States, where he looks at life without oil and the production of alternative energy resources for the future.

In this installment, the team looks at ways to achieve equilibrium between sustainable development and the growth needed to support 7 billion people.

Focusing on Bangladesh, this episode looks at people who left their lives behind to work with charities and bring meaningful change to those in need. Through their foundation, Yves and Runa Marre are providing health care to isolated communities in Bangladesh aboard a floating hospital.

Yann Arthus-Bertrand travels through Senegal to meet men and women who are dedicating their lives to preserving the environment and aiding Senegal's citizens.

Host Yann Arthus-Bertrand speaks to Prince Charles about forest preservation efforts, and to Temple Grandin, an innovator in the livestock industry. Furthermore he examines environmental problems brought on by Quebec's hydroelectric dams, and meets with an architect whose structures are made of reclaimed materials.

Study the rebirth of nature that followed the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens, and visit Indonesia to witness the world's most sulfuric volcano. Yann Arthus-Bertrand also travels to Italy, home to the largest number of active volcanoes in Europe, to discuss the possible results of an eruption.