From Refugee Roots to Environmental Stewardship: The Story of David Duong

David Duong's journey from a $700 startup to leading a major waste management company that is transforming waste systems in the U.S. and Vietnam

Jan. 28, 2026 at 12:15pm

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David Duong, the founder of California Waste Solutions (CWS) and Vietnam Waste Solutions (VWS), has built a career in waste management with a focus on modern systems designed to reduce environmental risks. Starting with just $700 and one used truck in 1983, Duong and his family transformed CWS into a major environmental company, showing that humble beginnings are no barrier to success. Duong has also founded VWS to introduce advanced waste management practices and technologies in his home country of Vietnam, developing state-of-the-art facilities that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect nearby communities.

Why it matters

Waste management is a critical but often overlooked environmental issue, with significant impacts on public health, climate change, and local ecosystems. Duong's work in modernizing waste systems in both the U.S. and Vietnam demonstrates how innovative approaches to waste management can translate to cleaner air, lower health risks, and reduced environmental strain for surrounding communities.

The details

Duong's first venture was the CoGiDo Paper Corporation, launched in 1983 with just $700 and one used truck. After selling the company in 1989, Duong and his family founded California Waste Solutions (CWS) in 1992, starting with eight used trucks. With support from his family, they transformed CWS into a major environmental company. Duong also founded Vietnam Waste Solutions (VWS) to bring modern waste management practices to Vietnam, developing the Da Phuoc Integrated Waste Management Facility, recognized as one of the most advanced in Southeast Asia. VWS now handles up to 7,500 tons of waste daily in Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Duong founded CoGiDo Paper Corporation in 1983.
  • Duong sold CoGiDo Paper Corporation in 1989.
  • Duong and his family founded California Waste Solutions (CWS) in 1992.

The players

David Duong

The founder of California Waste Solutions (CWS) and Vietnam Waste Solutions (VWS), who has built a career in waste management with a focus on modern systems designed to reduce environmental risks.

Michael Duong

David Duong's eldest son, who has supported the family's waste management businesses.

Kristina Duong

One of David Duong's younger siblings, who has also supported the family's waste management businesses.

Victor Duong

One of David Duong's younger siblings, who has also supported the family's waste management businesses.

California Waste Solutions (CWS)

The waste management company founded by David Duong and his family in 1992, which has grown into a major environmental company.

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What they’re saying

“You have to go step by step. If you do that, the future will open.”

— David Duong (California Waste Solutions (CWS)

What’s next

The upcoming film 'The King of Trash' documentary by Errol Webber will cover the Duong family's refugee escape from Vietnam and their rebuilding in America, alongside the rise of their modern waste management businesses.

The takeaway

David Duong's journey from a $700 startup to leading a major waste management company that is transforming waste systems in the U.S. and Vietnam demonstrates how innovative approaches to waste management can have a significant positive impact on the environment and surrounding communities.