New Six-Part Documentary Series “Human Footprint” Examines How Humans Have Transformed the Planet

PBS announced HUMAN FOOTPRINT, a new six-part science documentary, which will air this summer across all PBS platforms. Hosted by biologist and Princeton University professor Shane Campbell-Staton, Ph.D., the series dissects all the ways humans have transformed the planet. In 4.5 billion years, the planet has never experienced anything like humans. Even our most basic needs – food, water, and shelter – place a staggering burden on the planet’s resources, and these biological needs are just the beginning because humans are no ordinary organisms.

“HUMAN FOOTPRINT is a modern and exciting addition to our growing slate of climate and environmental programming that will energize all audiences to engage in exploring the science that’s all around us,” said Bill Gardner, Vice President, Multiplatform Programming & Head of development at PBS. “We’re proud to welcome Shane and HUMAN FOOTPRINT to our legacy of best-in-class, provocative science content that’s also relatable, relevant and a joy to watch.”

Part science series and part travel show, Shane journeys from farms to restaurants, from high-tech labs to sweltering street markets, and from primeval forests to the back alleys of New York City. On his quest, Shane discovers, through the characters he meets, the impact of humans and how our actions give us a clearer vision of who we really are as a species.

“Hosting HUMAN FOOTPRINT has been one of the greatest adventures of my life. I study how animals adapt to the changes we are making to planet, but this journey really helped me to better understand the depth and breadth of our impact,” Shane said. “We are so intricately connected to the world around us in so many ways. I hope this series helps others to see and think about those connections in new ways.”

Each episode of HUMAN FOOTPRINT is built on a foundation of science, but the biggest lessons are about human nature. The series is not a “doom and gloom” tale of human villainy. Instead, it’s an honest reckoning with our vast footprint and our species’ singular history of transforming the planet.

“We’re thrilled to share HUMAN FOOTPRINT and Dr. Shane Campbell-Staton with audiences around the world,” said Neil Losin, owner and senior producer at Day’s Edge. “Now is the time to ask the big questions about humanity’s past, present and future, and Shane’s knowledge, curiosity and humility make him the perfect guide for this unforgettable journey.”

HUMAN FOOTPRINT is produced by Day’s Edge Productions with Nate Dappen, Ph.D., and Neil Losin, Ph.D., as series producers and directors. Bill Gardner is executive in charge for PBS. HUMAN FOOTPRINT has been made possible in part through funding secured from Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies.

This programming is part of a multiyear, multiplatform initiative from PBS that explores every aspect of how climate change impacts communities, countries and the entire planet. The comprehensive focus represents PBS’s biggest-ever commitment to the topic, providing a deeper understanding of the issues surrounding climate change and exploring its intersections with conservation, biodiversity and the ecosystem. PBS and its member stations will create a rich destination of storytelling that details the challenges of a changing climate while highlighting examples of hope and positive impact.

About Day’s Edge Productions

We are a full-featured broadcast-ready production company based in San Diego, CA. We specialize in telling stories about science, nature, conservation and adventure. Our team of Ph.D.-trained scientists and award-winning filmmakers is passionate about bringing cutting-edge science, inspiring stories, and important messages to broad audiences. Our projects range from broadcast series and specials, to webseries, to classroom and advocacy films. For more information, visit http://www.daysedge.com/.