Leonardo DiCaprio Features Redwood Forest Foundation in Award-Winning Environmental FilmAmid the towering redwoods and mist-covered hills of Northern California, a quiet but powerful transformation is underway—and now, the world is watching. The Redwood Forest Foundation (RFF) is honored to be featured in an award-winning environmental film produced and narrated by acclaimed actor and climate advocate Leonardo DiCaprio.The film, which explores global climate solutions and environmental resilience, spotlights RFF’s pioneering work in sustainable forestry and biochar production—offering viewers an intimate look at how community-driven conservation can restore ecosystems, support rural communities, and help combat climate change.A Global Spotlight on Local ImpactFor years, DiCaprio has used his platform to raise awareness about the climate crisis, biodiversity loss, and the urgent need for systemic change. His latest documentary continues that mission, highlighting innovative projects worldwide that offer hope and solutions in the face of planetary challenges.RFF’s feature in the film showcases the Usal Redwood Forest—a 50,000-acre working community forest managed for ecological restoration, carbon sequestration, and long-term sustainability. The segment captures the beauty of the redwoods while emphasizing the science and heart behind RFF’s work.From restoring salmon-bearing creeks to producing carbon-sequestering biochar from sustainable forest waste, the film brings to life the intricate and inspiring work done daily by the RFF team, local foresters, and community members.Biochar: Turning Forest Waste into Climate SolutionsThe biochar program is one of the most compelling parts of RFF’s story featured in the film. This regenerative solution converts excess wood from forest thinning into a nutrient-rich, carbon-stable soil amendment. This process not only improves soil health and crop yields but also locks carbon in the ground for centuries, helping to mitigate climate change.The documentary captures this process from forest floor to farm field, illustrating how RFF’s mobile kilns, field crews, and local partnerships unite to create a closed-loop system—where forest restoration, climate action, and rural development go hand in hand.Sustainable Forestry: A New Model for the FutureThe film also highlights RFF’s selective harvest practices, prioritizing ecological health over short-term gain. Unlike clear-cutting or extractive logging, the Usal Redwood Forest is managed for long-term resilience, balancing carbon capture, habitat protection, wildfire prevention, and economic benefit for local communities.Viewers see firsthand how FSC-certified forestry can support biodiversity, create jobs, and reinvest revenue into restoration efforts, proving that forests can be managed responsibly and productively.From the Redwoods to the World StageBeing featured in a significant environmental documentary isn’t just a recognition of RFF’s work—it’s a platform to amplify the message that community forestry works. When given the tools and trust to manage their land, rural communities can lead the way in restoring ecosystems and fighting climate change.The exposure from the film has already led to new partnerships, increased support for forest restoration, and growing public interest in climate-positive land management. For the communities along California’s North Coast, it’s a moment of pride and a catalyst for even deeper engagement.A Message of Hope and ActionIn a world often filled with warnings and despair about the environment, this film—and RFF’s role within it—offers something different: a blueprint for hope.As Leonardo DiCaprio says in the film’s closing remarks, “Real change begins when people reclaim their relationship with the land. In Northern California, the redwoods are not just standing—they’re healing. And so are the communities who call them home.”Watch the Film and Join the MovementThe documentary is now streaming globally and available through major platforms. Visit RFF.org/film to watch the trailer, access bonus content, and learn how you can support RFF’s continued work in sustainable forestry, biochar production, and climate resilience.This is more than a feature. It’s a call to action.The redwoods are rising. The world is watching. And together, we’re writing a new story for the future of our forests.
