Forest Engineer and Filmmaker Ernst Zürcher: 'We Are at the Limit of the Point of No Return'

Swiss forest engineer and filmmaker Ernst Zürcher has released a new documentary exploring the ancient forests of Yakushima, Japan, a place he says is nearing a critical environmental tipping point. The film, titled "La Forêt de la princesse, entre visible et invisible" (The Forest of the Princess, Between Visible and Invisible), delves into the unique ecosystem of the island, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Central to the film is the Jômon sugi, a sacred cedar tree estimated to be between 2,000 and 7,000 years old. This ancient giant presides over a forest renowned for its mystical and intoxicating atmosphere, which notably inspired the settings for Hayao Miyazaki's animated film "Princess Mononoké."

Zürcher, who has felt a deep connection to trees since childhood, traveled to Yakushima to study its venerable flora alongside various experts. The documentary aims to decipher the secrets of this primary forest, highlighting its ecological significance and the delicate balance of its environment.

Speaking about the state of the natural world, Zürcher conveys a sense of urgency, warning that humanity is "at the limit of the point of no return." His observations from the ancient Yakushima forest serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of natural ecosystems and the pressing need for conservation efforts.