I love watching movies and as a filmmaker I am constantly burning DVDs, which unfortunately means a lot of DVD creation and eventually a lot of DVD waste.

Luckily there are folks out there paving the way for change when it comes to DVD production, like Torch Films in New York City:

Thankfully, one startup, Torch Films in New York, is lowering their waste output and raising the bar for the manufacture and distribution of new discs by using a lightweight format called Flex DVD. It’s manufactured by CD Digital Card, a subsidiary of Zoba International in Rancho Cucamonga, California.

The studio’s first feature, Marina of the Zabbaleen, a documentary by Engi Waseff, is now sold as a “Flex disc” following a Tribeca Film Festival debut in September 2009. Using 50% less polycarbonate material than other DVDs, the Marina… DVD and sleeve package are 100% recyclable and are made of 95% recycled materials.

How awesome is that? I hope more companies follow their lead and make Flex DVDs!  Also, be sure to watch the trailer for Marina of the Zabbaleen below.

*photo by john_a_ward (CC)