“The Story of Stuff” is a 20-minute video which looks at the production distribution, consumption and disposal of “stuff” and presents the connections between a huge number of environmental and social issues, and calls us together to create a more sustainable and just world.

The primary message of the film is to use the exploration of the broader context of the conundrum of consumption in the modern world to try and encourage us to give more star billing to “Reduce” as we use the “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” mantra in our approaches to sustainability.

Plan It Green was able to watch the film, and hear a follow-on presentation by Annie Leonard who wrote and narrated the film. This special event was arranged by the San Diego Grantmakers and was held at the San Diego Hall of Champions.

Apparently we were not the first to see it. Indeed, this animated documentary about the life-cycle of material goods has been an internet phenomenon. It had been seen in 228 countries and territories and has had more than 7 million views to date.

Once the film was over we got to ask questions of Annie. What we found out was that Annie Leonard loves to talk trash. Using the same rapid-fire, fact-filled and humorous approach she used in her film, Annie was deftly able to connect the dots and explain the real social and environmental costs of how we make, use, and throw away stuff.

Of special note to event holders was Annie’s insight that whether we are talking about putting on an event or just considering a purchase of an item in general, the question shouldn’t just be on the quality of the items we purchase, but on the quantity of what we use. Indeed, this is something to ponder and reflect upon in planning for that next event.

More information and a chance to view the movie can be found at The Story of Stuff.