Watch E2 Design

2009
5 Seasons

E2 Design is a documentary series that originally aired on the Sundance Channel. The show features a unique approach to exploring sustainable architecture and eco-friendly design in different parts of the world. Each episode follows the work of visionary architects, designers, and engineers who are using innovative technologies to create sustainable solutions for today's biggest environmental challenges.

The show takes viewers on an inspiring journey around the world, showcasing cutting-edge designs and the individuals behind them. From New York to Shanghai, from Brazil to Ghana, we see how these experts are using green design to create sustainable cities, homes, and workplaces.

The premise of each episode varies, but typically, we're introduced to a designer grappling with a specific problem. For example, one episode focuses on "greening" urban spaces. We follow an architect in New York who is creating a green roof garden atop a skyscraper. In another episode, we visit a small village in Ghana where an architect is designing an ecovillage that uses sustainable materials and renewable energy sources to provide a high quality of life for residents.

Throughout the series, we also learn about the broader implications of eco-friendly design. We see how it can reduce carbon emissions, improve health outcomes, and help mitigate the effects of climate change. We learn about the importance of sustainable materials, the benefits of energy-efficient systems, and the value of local engagement in sustainable design.

The show does an excellent job of making complex topics accessible to a general audience. The pace is slow enough to provide plenty of detail and context, but not so slow as to lose the viewer's interest. The visual approach is also engaging, showcasing everything from intricate designs to stunning natural landscapes.

Overall, E2 Design is a compelling exploration of sustainable architecture and green design in action. Each episode offers a unique glimpse into the work of visionary professionals who are using their skills to create a better world. Whether you're an architect, environmentalist, or simply curious about sustainable design, this series is well worth a watch.

E2 Design is a series that ran for 5 seasons (30 episodes) between November 3, 2009 and on Sundance Channel

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Seasons

5 4 3 2 1

6. Aviation: The Limited Sky

December 30, 2008

Even if regional transportation becomes more efficient, people and goods will still need to travel the world. This episode looks at new technologies and policies that could offset the aviation industry's substantial greenhouse gas emissions, such as Amyris Biotechnologies' new synthetic jet fuels, and Hybrid Air Vehicles' second generation of dirigible airship. To reduce fuel emissions, industry leaders like Boeing are also advocating towing planes on runways and implementing smarter air traffic control systems.

5. Portland: A Sense of Place

December 23, 2008

Thanks to a progressive public transportation portfolio that includes train, streetcar, bus and aerial tram, Portland has become a global model of transit-oriented development (TOD). For more than 40 years, city planners have uniquely integrated transport decisions into urban growth and development efforts. The result: Portland is consistently ranked as one of the country's most livable cities, boasting a healthy two percent population growth annually -- and the second lowest per capita transportation spending of the 28 largest U.S. metropolitan areas.

4. Seoul: The Stream of Consciousness

December 16, 2008

In 2003, the city of Seoul took a rare step "back in time," demolishing a major downtown freeway to uncover and restore the ancient Cheonggyecheon stream that once flowed beneath it. An impressive feat of engineering, the project re-purposed more than 75 percent of the dismantled highway material for reconstruction and rehabilitation of the stream's banks and commercial corridor. The Cheonggyecheon is now a vital part of the city's commercial and tourism sectors, and has proven that environmental restoration can revive culture and community, as well.

3. Food Miles

December 9, 2008

In the 21st century global food economy, most foods travel an average of 1,500 miles from farm to plate. As renowned author Michael Pollan elaborates, the impacts of this fossil fuel-driven system are detrimental to the environment, but also to our health and social well-being. Writer Michael Shuman argues that investing in local food systems lessens the distance between who we are and what we eat, and creates wealth in the community.

2. Paris: Velo Liberte

December 2, 2008

Paris' ambitious public-private V?lib' bike initiative encourages residents to forgo cars for bikes and public transportation. In the process, the program has fostered a unique popular culture, complete with its own language, jokes and pick-up lines. If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, Paris Mayor Bertrand Delanoe has undoubtedly taken heart: Its success has inspired cities like Rome, San Francisco and London to begin adopting similar programs of their own.

1. London: The Price of Traffic

November 25, 2008

Based on the economic principle of demand management, London's congestion charge challenges the 20th century notion that cities should be designed around cars, and asks drivers to pay for access to public roads and parking spaces. Thanks to visionary municipal leaders like former Deputy Mayor Nicky Gavron, this plan is the core of a sweeping push to transform London into a transit-efficient and pedestrian-friendly megacity in time for the 2012 Olympic games.

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Where to Watch E2 Design

E2 Design is available for streaming on the Sundance Channel website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch E2 Design on demand at Amazon.