The Triumph of General Mills
The History Channel and the National Geographic Channel both have broadcast nearly identically themed programs in the last month or so on the subject of a depopulated Earth. First came Life After People, then, last week, Aftermath: Population Zero. Both imagined a world where humans have suddenly disappeared–for any number of reasons, with the understanding that the planet is still habitable for plants and animals–and predicts the eventual demise of all that mankind has created, from the smallest home to the grandest monument.
Both programs used a chronological, count-up format, beginning in the first hours after humans have disappeared. Quite suddenly, electrical systems will begin failing, as coal plants deplete their fuel. Even largely self-sufficient nuclear and hydroelectric systems will go offline as the national grid begins experiencing massive, computer initiated fail-safe blackouts. But once the diesel backup generators that ensure that spent nuclear material is kept cool in enormous pools shut down, those pools boil over, and radioactive material spreads. What plants and animals it doesn’t kill, however, do pretty well. Obviously, pets that cannot get outside are doomed, as are small breeds of dogs which are not naturally suited to survival without humans. But cats and larger dogs can fend for themselves. Zoo animals that can escape will adapt, assuming the weather cooperates. Sea life thrives, as do birds.
Over time, all man-made structures that require constant maintenance will fail, from bridges and towers to houses and skyscrapers. Essentially, what doesn’t get repainted will rust or rot, and eventually collapse. After a few decades, cities look more like jungles, with vines and weeds and forests growing on buildings and streets. After thousands of years it would be difficult to identify even New York City.
One thing I found amusing in Aftermath: Population Zero was a scene near the beginning, where humans have been absent for weeks, and small wild animals like raccoons have moved into our homes. A critter is shown foraging for food, and scurries past a box on a kitchen floor. Thanks to HD technology, we can see that the box contains Boo Berry Cereal. That’s right: Boo Berry survives mankind.




Dana doesn't do what Dana doesn't want to do.