Nuria Estrella Santos, Cert. '17

Posted On - November 20, 2023

Career

Nuria Estrella Santos, Cert. '17Nuria Estrella Santos, who in 2017 earned a UCLA Extension certificate in sustainability, was the sustainability coordinator on the first eco-friendly film in Ecuador and South America, "Los Wanabis."

The film's production actively promoted sustainability and eco-conscious practices, setting new standards for eco-friendly filmmaking in Ecuador. Estrella Santos explained in a message to the Alumni Association:

One key strategy was the implementation of a circular economy in production. Reuse and waste reduction were actively promoted in all departments. The actors' costumes were donated by a retail company, ETAFASHION, allowing for the reuse and repair of garments with manufacturing defects. Once post-production was complete, all garments were donated to charitable organizations, completing another cycle of reuse. Set construction prioritized the reuse and rental of existing objects and materials.

Proper waste management also played a crucial role in the project's environmental sustainability. The production's guiding motto was: "The best waste is that which is not produced in the first place," so the primary focus was on waste prevention.

  • We avoided approximately 15,000 disposable items during production.
  • Waste separation into recyclables and organic materials contributed to our environmental stewardship.
  • We responsibly delivered recyclables to environmental management authorities.
  • Organic waste was transformed into nourishment for happy little piggies, significantly reducing waste.
  • With crew and talent totaling more than 50 people, we sent less than 1 kg of waste to landfills daily during production.

Additionally, "The Wanabis" proactively addressed energy and fuel consumption. Priority was given to using natural light for illumination and shared transportation was encouraged. Carbon emissions generated during production were measured and offset. These measures not only had a positive environmental impact but also reduced operating costs, contributing to economic sustainability.

The film has been awarded the "Green Initiative" Seal by the Ministry of the Environment of Ecuador for being an outstanding environmental management initiative.

I invite you to join me in celebrating this remarkable milestone and supporting my ongoing journey to promote sustainability in the film industry in Ecuador. "Los Wanabis" is not just a film; it's a powerful statement underscoring the importance of embracing eco-conscious practices in all aspects of life.

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