By Carsten Stormer, Louise Kjeldsen and Kate Godfrey

Why plastic?

Plastic is a revolutionary material. It’s durable, affordable and has numerous applications. But what makes plastic so great has also pushed our planet to the brink of one of the worst environmental crises in modern history. WHY PLASTIC? consists of three powerful documentary films that, together, will put plastic in its rightful place as part of the unfolding climate crisis and as an issue that needs to be resolved if we are serious about working towards environmental justice. The films will cover different aspects of plastic pollution, namely health, recycling and the plastics industry:  We the Guinea Pigs: The greatest biological experiment in the history of mankind  The Recycling Myth: What really happens to our plastic waste once we put it in the recycling bin?  Coca-Cola’s Plastic Problem: Is the world’s largest soft drinks producer really ready to turn the tide on plastic waste?  The three films can be viewed separately or as part of a whole. Together, they provide the most holistic, yet in-depth overview of plastic pollution so far.  The three films can be viewed separately or as part of a whole. Together, they provide the most holistic, yet in-depth overview of plastic pollution so far.

Countries : Denmark, Germany, Philippines, United States, United Kingdom, Bulgaria, Türkiye, Uganda, Samoa
Original language : English
Directors
Carsten Stormer (Germany)
Louise Kjeldsen (Denmark)
Kate Godfrey (United States)
Producers
Tristan Chytroscheck (Germany)
Mette Heide (Denmark)
Alan Hayling (United Kingdom)
The Why Foundation
Plus Pictures
a&o buero
Renegade Pictures
Duration
3 x 52'
Production status
Completed
Completion
September 2021
Impact Statement
This initiative focuses on educating viewers about plastic pollution through film screenings and debates with expert partners. The goal is to inspire both individual and collective action. Viewers are encouraged to share their knowledge via social media, and at their educational or work settings, using provided materials like trailers, factsheets, and a dedicated landing page. Additionally, organizing local screenings and discussions is encouraged to broaden the conversation about plastic pollution and solutions. The initiative also urges viewers to change their consumption, investment, recycling, and disposal habits, and to petition lawmakers for environmental changes, supported by partner organizations.