Downsizing

Norwegian scientist Dr. Jorgen Asbjornsen from the Edvardsen Institute invents a groundbreaking process known as 'downsizing,' which shrinks organic material irreversibly. This invention is aimed at tackling pressing global issues such as overpopulation and global warming, promising a significant reduction in resource consumption.

Five years after the initial invention, the results of the downsizing experiment are unveiled at a major conference. Dr. Andreas Jacobsen discusses how the process is quick, painless, and requires only mild dental adjustments, causing excitement and curiosity among the public.

During the initial testing phase, downsized subjects live comfortably in a secured habitat, producing minimal waste. Over four years, they generate only a single garbage bag of non-compostable waste, showcasing the efficacy of the downsizing process.

The Edvardsen Institute celebrates a significant milestone as the first 'small' baby is born, marking the potential of a 'small' society. This development leads to discussions on transitioning from large to small living, envisioning a transformation over the next 200 to 300 years.

A decade later, the world faces a financial crisis largely attributed to the downsizing trend. Married couple Paul and Audrey Safranek struggle with financial instability in Omaha as consumer spending diminishes due to fewer individuals in the traditional economy.

During a college reunion, Paul and Audrey reconnect with friends Dave and Carol, who have opted for downsizing. Their conversation reveals the mixed perceptions of the downsizing process, with Dave highlighting increased quality of life and savings.

Intrigued by the prospect of a downsized life, Paul and Audrey attend a promotional event for Leisureland, a community for the newly downsized. Here they meet a 'small' couple, who illustrate how downsizing has substantially reduced their living costs and enhanced their lifestyle.

After learning about the financial advantages of downsizing, Paul and Audrey make a life-changing decision to undergo the process. With Paul’s substantial savings translating to significant capital in Leisureland currency, they feel excited about their future.

On the day of the procedure, Paul is heartbroken when he receives a call from Audrey. She reveals that she has decided to back out at the last moment, leaving Paul to face the downsizing process alone, a decision that alters his life profoundly.

Following his divorce from Audrey, Paul struggles to adapt to his new life as a downsized individual. He begins working as a telemarketer, realizing that the transition has not been as easy as he had hoped it would be.

At a neighborhood birthday party, Paul meets Ngoc Lan Tran, a Vietnamese woman downsized against her will. Despite her unfortunate situation, Lan shows kindness towards Paul, leading him to help her with various challenges she faces.

In gratitude for Lan’s kindness, Paul assists her in her cleaning business and helps gather food for those in need. Their burgeoning friendship becomes a source of solace and purpose in Paul's life as he comes to terms with his new identity.

Paul, Lan, and Dusan travel to Norway for a potential opportunity related to downsizing. During their journey, they encounter Dr. Asbjornsen, who warns them about the dire consequences of climate change, urging them to consider humanity's choices.

Dr. Asbjornsen reveals a contingency plan involving a vast vault designed to hold humanity's future until the Earth's conditions stabilize. While some express skepticism about the impending disaster, Paul feels compelled to enter, but ultimately rejects this fate.

Back in Leisureland, Paul embraces a life devoted to helping marginalized individuals, choosing community over seclusion. This choice reflects a commitment to service, indicating a profound transformation from his initial desires.