Disney has held a place in many hearts as one of the most magical places on Earth, but this year they’re revamping their small world to be a little greener, announcing a few big changes and one new introduction with a meaningful mission.

In February, the Disneyland resort switched its 16 guest trams from diesel to compressed natural gas, saving an estimated 50,000 gallons of standard diesel fuel each year. The resort is also converting the Disneyland Railroad steam trains and the Mark Twain riverboat to biodiesel made from the property’s used cooking oil, which is expected to reduce emissions by as much as 80%. Then, in March, the Walt Disney Company announced plans to cut its fuel-derived carbon emissions in half by 2012, with an ultimate goal of net zero greenhouse gas emissions, as well eliminating the waste it sends to landfills by recycling, composting and the purchase of more environmentally-friendly materials. It was also made clear, however, that the goals were “aspirational” and would be dependent on the developments in technology over the next few years, but Walt Disney Company did work with Conservation International on their targets and are planning on having a third-party conduct annual audits of their progress.

At the same time, Disney has also launched its first new film label in over 60 years, Disneynature, and is preparing for its first film premiere on Earth Day (April 22). The film, titled Earth, is a documentary designed specifically for the big screen by Alastair Fothergill, producer/director of the popular Planet Earth series and aims to take viewers on a tour of the planet unlike anything they’ve ever seen (and to the voice of Darth Vader himself, James Earl Jones).

If you’re needing a little extra to push to corral the kids into the car and head to the theater to check out Earth (besides Earth Day), Disneynature will be planting a tree for every moviegoer who sees the film in the first week. The trees will be planted in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, of which only 7% remains, and will be cared for after planting to ensure growth—but we think just the lure of a kid-friendly film that adults enjoy equally will be enough to get you to the movie opening week.

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