Creation and International Communication of Natural Ecological Documentaries from The Perspective of Environmental Communication

Abstract

This study aims to explore the conservation and international communication capabilities of documentary filmmaking through the medium of natural ecology. Under the pressures of globalization and modernization, environmental challenges facing humanity, such as global warming and air pollution, are becoming increasingly prominent. This study evaluates how natural ecology-oriented documentaries can simultaneously serve as conservation tools and international communication tools to promote the dissemination of ecological knowledge and concepts, and enhance the dissemination of ecological culture and the transmission of ecological values. Through the production of natural ecology documentaries and the public discussion they spark on environmental issues, natural ecology documentaries can reduce cultural barriers in cross-cultural communication and promote international exchange and dissemination of ecological civilization.This study employs a mixed-method approach combining literature review, field research, and interviews with practitioners, environmentalists, and cultural experts. Using environmental communication theory as a framework, and focusing on natural ecological documentaries, it analyzes the construction of environmental discourse and its social functions in these documentaries. By comparing the discursive characteristics of the documentaries "An Inconvenient Truth" and "Under the Dome," this study explores the discursive differences between Chinese and American natural ecological documentaries.The findings suggest that while traditional communication methods remain crucial, integrating modern media with natural ecology can enhance audience engagement and contribute to environmental protection. The documentary format enriches narrative frameworks and contextual interpretations, effectively raising awareness and promoting cross-cultural exchange and international dissemination of ecological civilization.