MPT Presents: Shattered Sky: The Battle for Energy, Economy and Environment

How the U.S. Helped Solve the Biggest Environmental Crisis the World Had Ever Seen

OWINGS MILLS, Md., Sept. 6, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Maryland Public Television (MPT) presents Shattered Sky: The Battle for Energy, Economy and Environment, a gripping account of the extraordinary events that led to America's global leadership in preserving the Earth's ozone layer. Shattered Sky explores why this triumph in international cooperation is a model for addressing global climate change and America's energy future. Shattered Sky is a one-hour documentary by independent filmmakers Steve Dorst and Dan Evans, which premieres on public television stations nationwide beginning September 2012.

The release of Shattered Sky coincides with the 25^th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol, the groundbreaking agreement that solved the biggest environmental crisis the world had ever seen. Former U.S. Secretary of State George Shultz looks back on the international treaty as one his proudest accomplishments as a member of the Reagan Administration.

"[Shattered Sky] explores parallels with the current challenges we face in addressing global climate change and developing clean and secure energy supplies for the future," said former U.S. Secretary of State George Shultz. "It shows what we can do when we actively work together to make a difference."

Shattered Sky, traces the unfolding drama of the ozone crisis through archival footage, as well as revealing interviews with key players. In 1974, chlorofluorocarbons, or CFCs, the gas found in billions of dollars worth of products like aerosol sprays, air-conditioning and refrigeration, were linked to the destruction of the protective ozone layer. Scientists warned of catastrophic consequences, including skyrocketing skin cancer rates. But lawmakers were slow to respond and business was reluctant to change.

The issue captured the public's attention. When consumers stopped buying aerosol products and flooded Congress with letters, it led to a ban on CFCs. But that wasn't enough. In 1985, a hole in the ozone layer the size of North America was discovered. The film reveals this milestone as a turning point, both in public consciousness and policy response. Two years later the United States led the world to a historic solution, and businesses developed replacements for CFCs, demonstrating that government regulation can lead to innovation.

Shattered Sky makes a powerful connection to today's debate on energy and climate change. It goes on location to coal mines and power plants, and interviews the CEO of America's largest power company to find out what role government, business, and citizens should play in developing fundamental solutions.  Shattered Sky chronicles a rare bipartisan success story and asks the powerful question, "Will we rise to the challenge of energy and climate change?"

Shattered Sky is distributed by the National Educational Telecommunications Association (NETA).

About the filmmakers: Dorst runs a documentary film studio in Washington, D.C., producing, shooting and editing for TV and film, as well as corporate clients. Evans is an award-winning filmmaker, producer and editor also based in Washington, D.C. He regularly works with National Geographic Television, while also maintaining a passion for producing short films for nonprofit organizations. Shattered Sky is their second collaboration, following their work together on the documentary, Volcanic Sprint.

Maryland Public Television is a leading producer and distributer of innovative national public television programming to the 350 member stations of the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS). MPT boasts more than a 40-year legacy of groundbreaking and innovative contributions to national PBS and public television schedules nationwide.

SOURCE Maryland Public Television