Sand Wars

2014 • 52 minutes

About this movie

Sand Wars is a surprising investigation into one of the most consumed natural resources on the planet. Triggered by a demand for expansive construction, the planet's reserves are being threatened. Three-quarters of the world's beaches are in decline and bound to disappear as victims of erosion or "sand mafias", groups who plunder beaches and rivers for this highly prized commodity. Sand has quietly infiltrated every corner of our world. Melted and transformed into glass, it sits on every shelf. It is also the source of silicon dioxide, a mineral found in an astounding variety of products we use on a daily basis. Houses, skyscrapers, bridges, airports, and sidewalks are all partially comprised of sand. It is an elementary particle that is the foundation of our modern development. But is this omnipresent material inexhaustible? What will be the consequences of sand extraction on the environment and life on the planet? Sand Wars will take us around the world to witness this new gold rush firsthand.

Ratings and reviews

Eye opener