A new 3-part video series developed by Jessica and Steve Agnos and Charli Sakari highlights the connections between the elements on Earth and the stars. The videos dive into the basics of what atoms and molecules are, what isotopes are, how carbon was created, what is actually responsible for the greenhouse effect, and how we know that climate change is anthropogenic. These videos can be shared with the public, used in classrooms, and more!

Part I – Elements of Change: Atoms In Everything: Atoms form the basis of everything we interact with: our loved ones, our pets, our food, and the nature that surrounds us. We have the stars to thank for these precious atoms that allow us to exist. In this video it is presented what atoms are, how they were created in stars, and why Carl Sagan so famously said, “We are star stuff.”

Part II – Elements of Change: The Carbon Atom: Carbon has come a long way in the Universe, from its origins in distant stars all the way to Planet Earth. Despite being cast as the villain of climate change, carbon isn’t actually the problem. We are carbon in the Universe but have to understand its role in the climate crisis.

Part III – Elements of Change: Carbon and Climate: We all know that climate change is driven by the burning of fossil fuels – but how do scientists actually know that fossil fuels are the culprit? Learn how carbon isotopes (atoms with different numbers of neutrons) in Earth’s atmosphere implicate fossil fuels as the driver of climate change.

If you want to help, get further information or have ideas for more videos please, contact Charli Sakari on slack.