UN Named Nature Documentary Legend, David Attenborough, Earth's Champion

The United Nations Environment Programme has appointed Sir David Attenborough a Champion of the Earth.

(Photo : Tim P. Whitby/Getty Images)

The coveted prize honors the 95-year-dedication old's to sharing stories about nature and climate change.

Sir David accepted the medal and stated that the world must act immediately to safeguard nature and the earth.

The Green Planet and A Plastic Ocean are two of his well-known documentaries.

According to Sir David, environmental success stories should offer us faith that change is possible.

"Whales were on the verge of extinction fifty years ago, but people banded together, and now there are more whales in the water than any living person has ever seen," he said.

"We know what the problems are and how to fix them; all we need is a coordinated response."

Also Read: 5 Famous Environmental Leaders Devoted to Saving The Earth

Honoring Sir David Attenborough

The UN chose Sir David because of his dedication to broadcasting the natural world, according to UNEP Executive Director Inger Anderson.

"It's because millions of us fell in love with the earth that he documented on video and in his voice that we have a chance of preventing climate and biodiversity breakdowns and cleaning up damaged ecosystems," stated UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen.

Sir David began working on natural history shows in the 1950s, and his programs, which were shot in far-flung locations throughout the world, were hugely popular. His warnings about the harm that climate change is bringing the world and mankind have gotten increasingly ominous in the last four years.

Liked by Many

Sir David is incredibly well-liked among youngsters and teens concerned about climate change. Greta Thunberg, a teen climate activist, described meeting the broadcaster as "indescribable" and added that everyone should want to be like him.

When asked about Sir David, youngsters at the London Aquarium informed BBC News that they enjoy seeing him on television and even own books about him.

"He does many things to help our earth and animals, and he says on his program that the natural world is in danger if we don't do anything," Raya, 10, adds.

She is concerned about the environment, stating that "we need to stop using plastic, start driving more electric cars, and plant more trees instead of tearing them down."

Benjamin, 13, said Sir David's shows had motivated him to pursue a career as a marine biologist. They've also taught him about the dangers of climate change and the loss of wildlife.

"I want to be able to have a family, and I want them to live in a good world," he continued, "but if we all work together, we can conserve the natural world."

Sir David's Impact

Prof Rick Stafford, a marine scientist at Bournemouth University, told BBC News that Sir David's emphasis on success stories like bringing whales back from extinction is critical.

"He pushed climate change and biodiversity loss to the forefront, and while optimism is vital, the primary challenges to be handled are economical and political," he stated.