It was just brought to my attention last night that the group of people infamously known as 'dumpster divers' have also become known as 'freegen'. At first glance, dumpster divers are usually thought to be homeless people that have no choice but to search for food and shelter in corporate americas trash. Freegens take this a step further, adding an ethical stance to their way of life. They are not homeless because they have been marginalized from the norm of society, but instead believe that recycling trash (yes even food) is an ethical obligation.
We've all found ourselves in that awkward situation, standing behind some angry man or woman in the check out line, who relentlessly argues for a discount on the almost expired meat, dairy or produce. Well, grocery stores have caught on, and while some add discount coupons to go along with their products, most will not risk running the reputation for selling 'almost' bad chicken or lettuce. As a result, the majority will throw away their goods upon nearing the end of their shelf life.
I have always had a fascination with dumpster diving and I think this was highlighted after watching a couple episodes of Hoarders on A&E. While the two are contrary to one another, they do have one thing in common, they reflect the value individuals place on objects. While dumpster divers recycle other peoples trash, hoarders treasure their own trash to a fault.
Some hoarders will dumpster dive and search for their idolized objects in trash, but they are projecting an unhealthy importance to this object. Whereas freegen, are more worried about the ramifications caused by the unhealthy need to consume and discard. They are modern day hippies and I praise them for their simplicity and message.
Well, thats all for today!
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