Committed to modernizing waste systems, David Duong implements innovative sustainability programs and gives back to the communities his companies serve. As a Vietnamese American entrepreneur, sustainability leader, and the founder and chief executive officer of California Waste Solutions (CWS) and Vietnam Waste Solutions (VWS), David has built a multi-generational environmental enterprise by transforming the waste management industry across nations.
The journey of David's family from the fall of Saigon to building a new life in the United States with just $700 and an old truck is the epitome of the American dream and is now the focus of a documentary film, "The King of Trash." David and his family's success was built with perseverance, hard work, and staying united.
"You have to go step by step. If you do that, the future will open," says David.
The Refugee Family That Rebuilt from Nothing
Jim Tai Thu Duong, known in Vietnam as "Vua Rác" (the King of Trash), lost his company, the largest paper-recycling firm in South Vietnam, in 1975 when Saigon fell. The Duong family fled by boat and settled in California, the United States. The seventeen family members squeezed into a small apartment and worked tirelessly at night collecting recyclables to support themselves. The humble work of collecting cardboard and bottles was honest work, Jim reminded them, as all occupations carried honor.
Later, Jim would start a new company that he sold a few years later. In the early 90s, inspired by his father's work in Vietnam, David founded CWS. The business now serves thousands of households in Oakland and San Jose, but started with only eight used trucks, his family's support, and the determination to succeed.
Over time, David and the Duong family built one of the largest and most trusted family-owned recycling companies in the country. The Duongs live by the values instilled in them by older generations: hard work, integrity, service, and gratitude.
In "The King of Trash" documentary, the story of the multi-generational family is inspirational as they journey across two countries to fulfill their American dream in California and later, help David bring sustainable waste solutions to their homeland of Vietnam.
Values That Built an Environmental Enterprise
Jim Tai Thu Duong taught his children, David, Victor, and Kristina, that nothing should be wasted. This included materials, opportunity, human potential, and even hardship. This belief system shaped how the future generations of Duongs would approach life and business.
David worked tirelessly to make his company successful, with his family's help, holding key roles in the organization. Over the three decades the company has existed, he has prepared the organization for an initial public offering while also expanding its impact. David is committed to keeping CWS and VWS in Vietnam "aligned with future sustainability needs and global environmental standards."
Because David believes in renewal, he is one of the first Vietnamese American entrepreneurs to reinvest in Vietnam. He is not only the founder and CEO of VWS, but also involved in the largest environmental projects in Southeast Asia, the Da Phuoc Integrated Waste Management Facility and the Long An Green Environmental Technology Park.
A Legacy of Service and Renewal
"What makes this story meaningful is not only the business success, but what it represents. The Duong Family's journey mirrors that of many Vietnamese American families who rebuilt their lives through perseverance, unity, and a belief in opportunity," says a spokesperson for "The Trash King" documentary.
David plans to continue building a legacy that honors his father, supports the next generation of family leaders, and is committed to benefiting the communities the companies serve by modernizing waste systems and advancing innovative recycling technology.
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