"A public relations battle rages over the impact of oil sands production on the environment and the people living downstream. This is thanks in part to a steady campaign by the residents of Fort Chipewyan in northern Alberta. They believe oil sands toxins are destroying their territory and their culture, and they've attracted some powerful voices to their cause, [including Dr. David Schindler, a freshwater scientist]. Chief among them is Avatar director James Cameron. At the same time, new scientific research could trigger a tipping point in the PR battle."--Container.

"A nature of things special presentation." Originally broadcast on the television program, The nature of things, in 2011.

Introduction -- Dark Satanic mills -- Will the government listen? -- Point of no return -- Environmental politics -- Alternatives to dirty oil -- The real Pandora -- Schindler's research.