Do you know the difference between planned and perceived obsolescence?

Do you know why high heels are fashionable with chunky heels one year, and thin heels the next year?

Why is breast milk the “food” highest in toxic contaminants?

And do you know why in the wake of September 11th, George Bush told us all to go shopping?

 

These questions and many, many others are answered in The Story of Stuff, a 20-minute documentary about the life cycle of products and services, explaining everything about…well…stuff.

 

The underlying environmental message is not communicated using sensationalistic footage or over-dramatic statements of Armageddon. In fact, the flash illustrations and enthusiastic presenter make this video appropriate (and constructive if you ask me) for even children to watch.

 

Fact checkers will enjoy the resources section of the site, which includes an annotated script. And anybody whose curiosity is piqued will find more information, along with constructive and innovative suggestions to harness change on the website.

 

It is worth the next 20 minutes of your life to learn about The Story of Stuff. Check it out here.