‘The King of Trash’ Chronicles the True Story of David Duong and California Waste Solutions’ Environmental Innovation

“The King of Trash” Documentary Elevates the Legacy of David Duong, and the Duong Family, Showcasing a Landmark American Dream Journey and Their Leadership in Environmental Innovation.

California Waste Solutions has released “The King of Trash,” a feature-length documentary directed by award-winning cinematographer Errol Webber. This film brings forward a powerful, deeply human portrayal of the life of David Duong, also known by his Vietnamese name Dương Tử Trung, and the remarkable journey of the Duong Family from the fall of Saigon in 1975 to becoming leaders in environmental services, recycling innovation, and sustainability across California and Vietnam.

Image 1: Duong Family Photo (Kristina Duong, David Duong, Victor Duong, Michael Duong)

From the opening scenes, “The King of Trash” delivers a cinematic and emotional narrative centered on a Vietnamese refugee story that reflects the resilience, unity, and determination of millions who rebuilt their lives after escaping conflict. The Duong Family fled Vietnam with nothing, survived the open ocean, and arrived in America with only hope and determination. The documentary retells how David Duong, his father Jim Tai Thu Duong, and his siblings including Victor Duong and Kristina Duong used hard work and integrity to rebuild everything they had lost. Their story serves as a rare and inspiring example of the American Dream journey realized through perseverance and service.

Today, California Waste Solutions stands as one of California’s leading environmental services companies. The documentary highlights how David Duong and the Duong Family transformed CWS Oakland and CWS San Jose into trusted long-term partners for the City of Oakland and the City of San Jose. CWS provides recycling services that support hundreds of local jobs and help shape the future of Oakland recycling and San Jose recycling through programs that prioritize community well-being, environmental responsibility, and modern recycling systems.

Throughout the film, viewers witness the rise of CWS from a modest family operation to an essential institution in the Bay Area. This transformation was made possible through decades of commitment from David Duong, Victor Duong, and Kristina Duong, who each play an essential role in guiding the company’s direction. The Duong Family legacy continues to expand through their leadership and dedication to sustainable practices that benefit millions of residents.

Image 2: CWS Truck in Operation

The documentary also follows the family back to Vietnam, where Vietnam Waste Solutions has grown into one of the most advanced recycling and waste management facilities in the region. VWS Vietnam represents a historic full-circle accomplishment for David Duong and the Duong Family. After losing everything in Vietnam, they returned decades later not just to rebuild their lives but to build a high-tech environmental infrastructure that serves Ho Chi Minh City and sets new standards for recycling infrastructure in Vietnam. Vietnam Waste Solutions stands as a symbol of what refugee success stories can become when combined with vision, expertise, and gratitude for both homeland and adopted country.

“The King of Trash” also provides insight into the personal challenges that shaped the Duong Family’s character. The film addresses periods of intense public scrutiny, reputation challenges, and outdated narratives that have circulated online. Without referencing any specific incidents, the documentary clarifies how misinterpretations and misleading portrayals can overshadow decades of community service and environmental leadership. By opening their personal history to the public, the Duong Family demonstrates transparency, value-driven leadership, and a willingness to confront and correct narratives through truth and storytelling. The film offers a perspective that humanizes David Duong, strengthens his standing as a Vietnamese American entrepreneur, and reaffirms his reputation as a sustainability leader and respected business figure.

Image 3: Film Poster

This reputation-strengthening approach is one of the most powerful aspects of “The King of Trash.” The film replaces outdated narratives with verified, inspiring, and emotionally grounded information. It shows David Duong as a community leader whose contributions to Oakland recycling, San Jose recycling, and environmental responsibility extend far beyond business success. It also underscores that the values of CWS Oakland, CWS San Jose, and VWS Vietnam are rooted in service, innovation, and gratitude for opportunities earned over decades.

“The King of Trash” is now positioned to reach audiences interested in sustainability, immigrant entrepreneurship, community leadership, environmental responsibility, and the real meaning of rebuilding after 1975. Media outlets, journalists, and partners are invited to engage with the film, request interviews, and explore opportunities for collaboration.

For more information, visit www.thekingoftrash.us or contact info@thekingoftrash.us.