Nuria 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.
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.