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Science North film shows decades-long effort to regreen Sudbury

New documentary tells the story of one of the world's greatest environmental recovery efforts

The Sudbury regreening story, one of the most popular modern tales of city's environmental resilience, is being told again, this time in a new film produced by Science North.

The film's premiere showing occurred Nov. 28 at Dynamic Earth for the film titled “Planting Hope: A Regreening Story”.

The documentary tells the familiar story "of how collaborative efforts, innovative regreening techniques, and a shared commitment to the land have revitalized Greater Sudbury," said a news release.

As most Sudburians are aware, there was a time when the landscape surrounding the city was rocky, barren and decidedly bleak, as a result of a century of industrial abuse from the acid rain and chemical fallout from the refineries and smelters that converted millions of tonnes or ore into nickel and copper, and created thousands of jobs and sustained Northern Ontario's economy in the process.

"The film is more than just a documentary — it is a reminder that with dedication and a shared vision, a brighter, greener future is within reach," said the release.

As Sudbury continues to evolve, the release said “Planting Hope” serves as a testament to the power of human determination and partnership in addressing ecological challenges. This legacy of regreening is a beacon of hope for communities worldwide facing similar struggles.

“Planting Hope” is available for public screenings at Dynamic Earth’s Epiroc Theatre. For showtimes and tickets visit dynamicearth.ca, said the release. 

Planting Hope was financially supported by Vale, the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation, the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario, and the City of Greater Sudbury, said the release.