30 Best Earth Day Movies for Kids (2024)

Rated G - Recommended for ages 7+

30 minutes

This colorful animated film follows Puff, a curious and adventurous puffin as he dives deep into the ocean to explore its wonders. Along the way, he meets some amazing creatures, learns about the importance of conservation, and discovers how humans can help protect our fragile undersea world.

Message: The importance of conservation, understanding the effects of our actions on the environment, and how we can positively contribute to protecting our planet.

Rated G - Recommended for ages 5+

42 Minutes

Celebrate Earth Day with Blippi as he teaches us all about the planet and turns a piece of polluted land into an exquisite garden! Blippi and his team of scientists, engineers and friends all come together to clean up a local park that’s been filled with trash. With the help of some music, comedy, and creative problem-solving, they turn it into an oasis full of plants, animals and lots of fun!

Message: Caring for nature is important.

Rated G - Recommended for ages 7+

75 minutes

This classic animated film brings viewers into the magical world of FernGully, a rainforest threatened by deforestation. Through the journey of a fairy named Crysta and her human friend Zak, they discover the importance of protecting the forest and its wildlife. Along with discovering friendship and courage, they also gain an appreciation for our planet's natural resources.

Message: The power of friendship, the need for conservation efforts, and how everyone can make a difference in preserving our planet.​​​​

Rated G - Recommended for ages 5+

85 minutes

In this charming documentary, two young polar bears bravely embark on a journey through the Arctic’s melting glaciers and shrinking ice. Along their travels, they meet amazing creatures and learn about the effects of global warming on our planet's delicate ecosystems. As the film progresses, they discover the importance of conservation, understanding the effects of our actions on the environment, and how we can positively contribute to protecting our planet.

Message: The urgent need to reduce climate change, the significance of conservation efforts, and how everyone can make a difference in preserving our planet.​

Rated G - Recommended for ages 5+

1 hour 15 minutes

This short animated film follows a group of police officers as they patrol the city looking for environmental criminals. When they discover a group of villains trying to pollute the city with toxic waste, the officers must work together to stop them and save their beloved city.

Message: Keeping our planet clean is essential and it’s up to all of us to protect it.

Rated G - Recommended for ages 4+

57 minutes

This classic animation follows everyone’s favorite mischievous monkey, Curious George as he and his friends embark on an adventure to save their beloved park from developers. Through a combination of teamwork and ingenuity they work together to save the day.

Message: The power of teamwork, understanding the impact of our decisions on the environment, and how we can make a positive difference.

G- Recommended for ages 7+

76 minutes

Disneynature’s newest and much-anticipated feature film “Penguins” chronicles the struggles of Steve, an Adélie penguin who embarks on a challenging mission: to build a comfortable nest and find his life partner. Released for Earth Day in 2019, funny narration makes this movie kid-friendly despite the danger from predators such as killer whales and leopard seals.

Message - In order to preserve our planet, we must all take responsibility and participate in conservation efforts.

Rated G - Recommended for ages 5+

103 minutes

After hundreds of years, the Waste Allocation Load Lifter Earth-class robot--or WALL-E for short--is the last remaining mechanical being on Earth. He devotes his days to tidying up our planet with one piece of garbage at a time. Throughout this process he has developed an undeniable personality and is in desperate need of companionship, but his mission of cleaning up the planet becomes increasingly complicated when he meets EVE, a robotic probe searching for signs of life. Through his relationship with EVE, WALL-E discovers that humans can change and heal our ailing planet.

Message: The importance of reducing waste and preserving resources and how one individual can make a difference in protecting our planet.

Rated G - Recommended for ages 7+

45 Minutes

This beautiful documentary follows a polar bear and her two cubs as they make an epic journey through the Arctic to find food, safety, and a place to call home. Along the way, they must brave perilous conditions and face the effects of climate change while facing determined predators who are also struggling to survive. This moving cinema experience offers a unique look at the beauty of our planet and the urgent need to protect it.

Message: The importance of caring for the environment, understanding the impact of climate change, and protecting nature’s creatures.

Rated G - Recommended for ages 5+

100 minutes

This beloved animated adventure follows the story of an overly-protective clownfish named Marlin and his son Nemo, whose experience leads him far away from home. Along the way, they meet a host of colorful characters and learn about some of the struggles that come with life in the ocean — such as overfishing and coral reef destruction. With its heartfelt story, Finding Nemo reminds viewers of our responsibility to protect our seas and leave them healthy for future generations.

Message: The fragility of our oceans and the need for conservation efforts.

G - Recommended for ages 5+

87 minutes

This Disneynature documentary takes viewers on a beautiful journey to Alaska, exploring the world of grizzly bears and their cubs. With exceptional footage of these magnificent creatures, Bears offers an intimate look at their behavior and habitats — providing an educational experience about conservation efforts, and highlighting the importance of protecting our planet.

Message: The importance of conservation and protecting wildlife; the beauty of nature.

G - Recommended for ages 5+

50 minutes

This animated musical series educates viewers about the importance of sustainability, conservation, and renewable energy. Through fun songs and colorful animation, School House Rock: Earth inspires kids to take action in protecting our planet — showing them that everyone can make a difference in saving our environment.

Message: The importance of sustainability, conservation and renewable energy

G - Recommended for ages 5+

95 minutes

This awe-inspiring documentary showcases the beauty of our planet in one amazing day. With breathtaking scenes from around the world, this movie is a reminder of the incredible wonders of nature — and how fragile our environment is. Earth One Amazing Day celebrates life on earth and encourages viewers to appreciate the planet, as well as take action to protect it.

Message: The beauty of nature; the fragility of our environment;

G - Recommended for ages 5+

25 minute episodes

This award-winning series follows the magical adventures of two children as they travel around the world, discovering the wonders and mysteries of nature. With beautiful animations and catchy songs, Once Upon a Time - Planet Earth is an enchanting way to explore our planet — teaching kids about vital environmental issues in a fun and engaging way. With multiple episodes covering topics like biodiversity, climate change, and renewable energy, this series is an excellent choice for kids of all ages.

Message: The wonders and mysteries of nature; the importance of environmental issues.​

Rated G - Recommended for ages 6+

80 minutes

This Oscar-winning documentary follows the journey of a group of emperor penguins as they migrate across Antarctica. Through stunning visuals and narration, viewers get an intimate look at these creatures' lives and their incredible struggle to survive in one of the harshest climates on Earth. Along with providing a captivating story, March of the Penguins is an important reminder of how interconnected human and animal lives are — and how we must protect our planet.

Message: The importance of conservation efforts and the interconnectedness between humans and animals.

Rated PG - Recommended for ages 6+

1 hour 26 minutes

This computer-animated version of the Dr. Seuss classic is a great way to introduce younger children to the importance of protecting nature.

Young Ted (Zac Efron) lives in Thneedville, a town forsaken of nature where not even one flower or tree can be found. To impress Audrey (Taylor Swift), the girl he adores, Ted embarks on an extraordinary journey to obtain what she desires most - a Truffula Tree! In his quest, he discovers the tale of Lorax, the former guardian of the forest and Once-ler, whose greed cost him respect for nature.

Message: The importance of standing up for what's right, living in harmony with nature and taking care of our planet.

Rated PG - Recommended for ages 6+

96 Minutes

This movie follows the story of Migo, a young Yeti who lives in an idyllic village. When he discovers something small, but human-like, living above the clouds he must convince his disbelieving friends and family that the creature is real. He sets off on an adventure to prove it and in his journey, learns the importance of friendship, respect and caring for nature.

Message: The importance of believing in yourself, respecting others, standing up for what’s right and taking care of our planet.

Rated PG - Recommended for ages 8+

107 Minutes

Based on a real-life story, this heartwarming movie follows the efforts of two news reporters and an animal activist to save a family of three gray whales from becoming trapped in ice off the coast of Alaska. The trio must convince both rival nations and their governments to work together and enlist the help of people from all over the world to save this family.

*Caution - animal death is depicted.

Message: The importance of coming together, protecting nature, working cooperatively and understanding the interconnectedness of life on earth.

Rated PG - Recommended for ages 6+

91 Minutes

This animated movie follows the misadventures of Manny, Sid, Diego, and a host of other colorful characters as they journey towards safety when a massive flood threatens their valley. After all else fails to stop the rising waters, it’s up to their wacky inventions and the help of some furry friends to save the day.

Message: Working together, using our imaginations and taking care of nature are all important for a successful future.

TV-PG - Recommended for ages 8+

**Caution animal hunting/prey/predator violence**

~50 minute episodes

This visually stunning documentary series follows a group of intrepid explorers as they journey across the planet to explore and document some of the world’s most extraordinary places. From extreme climates to delicate ecosystems, Our Planet showcases the beauty of nature and how we are all connected. It also provides an honest look at the impact of climate change and human activity on our planet and its inhabitants.

Message: A greater appreciation of nature's beauty, a better understanding of the consequences of human activities, and the need to protect wildlife and their habitats.

Rated PG - Recommended for ages 8+

108 minutes

This delightful animated movie follows a Young emperor penguin named Mumble, who discovers he doesn’t fit in with the other penguins because he can’t sing. But instead of trying to fit in, he embarks on an adventure to discover what makes him special. Along the way, he discovers the importance of looking after our planet and its creatures.

Message: The importance of self-acceptance, the need to care for our environment, and the ability to make a difference in our world.

PG- Recommended for ages 8+

80 minutes

This animated feature tells the story of Cuca, a young boy who travels to the big city in search of his father. Along the way, he discovers the beauty and complexity of the world around him — from bustling downtown markets to expansive countryside landscapes. Through vibrant visuals, viewers get a glimpse into the interconnectedness of all living things as Cuca learns about the importance of protecting our environment and how everyone can make a difference.

Message: The interconnectedness between humans and the importance of environmentalism.

PG - Recommended for ages 7+

93 minutes

This recent documentary explores the future of our planet and how we can create a more sustainable world. Through interviews with experts in environmentalism, technology, and clean energy, viewers are presented with an uplifting vision of a brighter future — if we take action now. 2040 serves as an inspiring reminder that everyone can participate in creating a healthier, greener world.

Message: The importance of taking action now to ensure a better future for our planet; the potential of green technology and renewable energy sources.

PG - Recommended for ages 8+

91 minutes

Based on the Newbery Award-winning book, Hoot follows three kids who embark on an adventure to protect a population of endangered owls. Through humor and heart, this story celebrates the power of friendship and environmentalism — showing viewers how far one person can go when they’re passionate about a cause, and that everyone can make a difference.

Message: The power of friendship; the importance of taking action to protect endangered species.

PG - Recommended for ages 9+

94 minutes

This documentary follows a team of divers, scientists, and photographers as they document the effects of climate change on coral reefs around the world. Through exceptional cinematography, viewers are offered an intimate look at these fragile ecosystems — and how human activity is threatening their existence. Chasing Coral highlights the importance of taking responsibility for the environment by inspiring action to protect our planet.

Message: The fragility of coral reefs and the effects of climate change.

PG - Recommended for ages 7+

111 minutes

This classic children’s film follows a young boy as he befriends an orca whale that is in captivity. Through this heartwarming story, viewers are reminded of the power of friendship — and that our choices can positively impact our environment. Free Willy highlights the importance of preserving wildlife and serves as an inspiring story of how interconnected humans are with nature.

Message: The importance of preserving wildlife; the interconnectedness between humans and nature.

PG - Recommended for ages 7+

91 minutes

This live-action animated film follows Woody Woodpecker as he embarks on an adventure to save his forest home from a greedy city slicker and lumber company. By providing an entertaining story about the importance of preserving nature, this movie is an inspiring reminder about the power of protecting our environment — and the importance of taking action to protect endangered species.A fun and entertaining movie the entire family will enjoy.

Message: The power of preserving nature; the importance of taking action to protect endangered species. ​​​

PG - Recommended for ages 7+

96 minutes

This animated comedy follows a mischievous raccoon and his woodland friends as they try to survive the encroaching suburban development. Filled with fun characters, this movie brings attention to the importance of wildlife conservation — and how human activities can impact nature. Over the Hedge is an entertaining reminder of the need to be aware of our impact on the environment and take responsibility for the planet.

Message: The importance of wildlife conservation; being aware of our impact on the environment.

PG - Recommended for ages 7+

90 minutes

This family-friendly comedy follows an ambitious real estate developer whose plans to build a luxury housing complex in Oregon are thwarted by a gang of wild animals. Furry Vengence is both hilarious and heartwarming — and serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving nature and respecting wildlife.

Message: The importance of preserving nature; respecting wildlife.

PG - Recommended for ages 12+

99 minutes

This thought-provoking documentary dives deep into the dark world of plastic pollution. With stunning footage from over 20 locations around the world, A Plastic Ocean highlights the devastating impacts of plastic on our environment — and emphasizes how we all need to reduce consumption and make more eco-friendly choices. This is a great film for middle school and high school aged kids to see.

Message: The devastating impacts of plastic on our environment; the need to reduce consumption and make more eco-friendly choices.​

PG - Recommended for ages 9+

120 minutes

This documentary follows young activists from around the world as they fight for a more sustainable future. Through inspiring stories of hope and courage, Tomorrow emphasizes the need to take action on climate change — exploring creative ways that individuals can make a difference. This movie is an eye-opening reminder of the power of collective action in saving our environment.

Message: The need to take action on climate change; the power of collective action in saving our environment.​