Plastico
Film Session(s)
Venue(s)
9 minutes, Mexico, 2016
The Azulita Project was born from the desire of several individuals to create a healthier and more environmentally sustainable community and world. Moved by the rampant plastic pollution and overuse of chemical pesticides in the Los Llanos region, the four original founders—Mike, Lainie, Erwing, and Pato—joined forces in 2008 to create the Azulita Project.
In its initial form, the Azulita Project was a volunteer “communitarian” effort which included organic farming education programs, a recycling project, a youth soccer league, dance instruction, English classes and a community space for teaching and gathering.
In 2014 the founders reorganized the recycling portion of the project in pursuit of an effective and sustainable business model. The concept was simple: create an economic incentive for people to recycle plastic and create well-paying jobs.
Mike and Lainie were originally drawn to this part of Mexico for its surfing. They quickly fell in love with the area and the local people. Over the course of several years, they built a home, raised their kids and became part of the community. They are both experienced and passionate for conservation, education, and grassroots community engagement.
Erwing is a native of Los Llanos but spent much of his teen years in the U.S. After school he chose to leave the U.S. and return to his home in Mexico. He wanted to live, work and have a family in his own hometown. He has always believed he could do good things for his town and its people and has dedicated much of his time and resources to these causes.
Director(s): James Q Martin
Producer(s): Meredith Meeks