The closing credits of BBC One soap EastEnders were transformed tonight (October 12) to highlight the challenges posed by climate change. It was also to promote the final episode of Sir David Attenborough's series Frozen Planet II
The new one-off take on the map of London's East End showed the River Thames bursting its banks with parts of the capital under water. The stark image predicted what parts of the city could look like in the future if climate change continues and sea levels rise by two metres.
The map zooms out to capture a satellite image of the Arctic with a voiceover saying: "This isn't a reality now, but our future will be determined by what happens here." Highlighting the challenge of melting ice in the frozen region, Sir David said: "The Arctic is now warming twice as fast as the Earth as a whole."
The final episode of Frozen Planet II looks at the effect climate change is having on Earth's frozen regions as they are undergoing unprecedented changes. It features some of the scientists and people dedicating their lives to documenting these changes and understanding their impact on the lives of the animals and people who live there, but also on the planet as a whole.
Jack Bootle, BBC head of commissioning, specialist factual, said: "Over the course of Frozen Planet II, we have encountered some of the world's most remarkable animals and discovered some of the challenges they face due to a warming climate. As we get ready for the final episode of the series, I hope this striking image will remind viewers that what happens in the coldest parts of the world directly impacts us here in the UK."
Frozen Planet II will air on BBC One at 8pm on October 16 and on the iPlayer.
