Redford's Sundance Channel To Focus on 'Green' Programming In April

Multichannel News reports that Robert Redford's putting his politics where his money is, producing an environmental propaganda offensive on his Sundance Channel on cable. It's called "The Green." Viewers can download an "eco-tips" guide that offers suggestions on "pro-environment" lifestyle changes consumers can make.

Redford also filmed customized public-service announcements for affiliates that have agreed to host The Green material on their broadband portals. Participants include Comcast, Time Warner Cable, Cox Communications, Bright House Networks and DirecTV.

The effort is supported on air with a weekly programming block that will debut April 17. The lead-off program is Big Ideas for a Small Planet, a 13-episode series on lifestyle areas in which individuals can make a difference. For instance, an episode titled "Drive" will discuss hybrid and electric cars.

The ecological programming effort will be guided by an advisory committee of more than 20 environmentalist organizations and individuals including the Sierra Club, the World Wildlife Fund, the Natural Resources Defense Council and the League of Conservation Voters. Individual members include former PBS boss Pat Mitchell, president of the Museum of Television and Radio; Robert Kennedy Jr., president of the Waterkeeper Alliance; and Laurie David, wife of writer-director Larry David, representing the NRDC.