Synopsis

Only one third of the waste in the United States is recycled or composted. Why? Industry, through its practice of planned obsolescence, plays a major role; our lives are almost totally dependent on unrecyclable petroleum products.   In order to reach zero waste, we need to change our relationship to garbage and view the things we discard as resources, rather than waste.   Racing to zero examines our society's garbage practices in terms of consumption, preparation, use and production, and discovers some amazing solutions in San Francisco, which is successfully taking the necessary steps to reach zero waste.   Cities all over the United States have instituted zero-waste policies of their own, and it is through these mandates that we are challenged to think differently about not only how we handle our garbage, but what it can become.  

 

Director's statement

Cities all over the United States have instilled zero waste policies of their own, and it is through these mandates that we are challenged to think differently about not only how we handle our garbage, but what it can become.   Countless innovations have emerged, and there is a booming innovation movement afoot. Above all, we must make major changes in our living and consuming patterns.   We each have a tremendous opportunity to make a difference.   Consider what you buy :
  • Can it have a longer life?
  • Can it be reused?
  • Repurposed?
  • Composted?
  Through education, thought and action, we can all change our patterns of living, and achieve the race to zero waste.

 

Why this choice?

A very nice example of a city that took matters into its own hands thanks to true political will, by giving itself both the financial and the human resources means.   As a result, the citizens follow and everybody benefits…   The film shows every opportunity offered by a 100% recycling program that generates jobs, value, revenues and a virtuous loop with peripheral farmers.   Complementary of the Clean Bin Project film, which shows how to drastically reduce one’s production of household waste.