Discovery launches $50m Planet Green environmental initiative

HONG KONG - Discovery Networks Asia will launch a 50-hour programming block called Planet Green in Asia, in a bid to tap into growing awareness of viewer awareness of environmental issues.

The block will launch via a US$50 million investment into original content focusing on the environment, starting with six-part premiere series ‘Fearless Planet.’ The network also revealed that Planet Green will also roll out as a dedicated 24-hour television channel in the US next year.

“Environmental issues are at the forefront of consumer consciousness now throughout the Asia-Pacific region, and Discovery is positioned to help lead this effort by providing quality content that educates, enables and entertains,” said Discovery Networks Asia EVP and MD Tom Keaveny in a statement.

“Planet Green will become the media brand synonymous with environmental education and awareness in this region.” The network last year acquired eco-lifestyle website Treehugger.com and has also formed the Planet Green Advisory Board, consisting of scientists, researchers and environmental leaders.