While the thought of going head first, feet
first, or even sideways into a dumpster without coercion may sound utterly
repulsive to some people, to others, the sport of dumpster diving is as exciting
as it gets. Dumpster divers, or “freegans”, as they are sometimes called, dive with a purpose into
dumpsters looking for anything of use that they can find. For some, it is a
protest against our wasteful society, while for others; it is their only means
of survival. Whichever the case, dumpster diving is attracting more and people
from all walks of life.
Disposable Society
Americans, unlike any other peoples in the world, throw away more in the span of a month than other people do their whole lives. At the same time, more and more people realize that the old saying “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure,” rings true much of the time.
Dumpster Diving Divas
An unlikely group of dumpster divers includes women who view the dumpsters as they do an amazing sidewalk sale at the mall. Suburban women, in search of great dumpster finds, are diving, heels up, into dumpsters all over the country.
“Dumpsters are places where treasure hides,” expresses one dumpster diva. “It is like your very own free yard sale,” expresses another. Many say that their fascination with dumpster diving began when they noticed a piece of furniture, jewelry or artwork that one of their friends had. “I could not believe that she got that beautiful end table from a dumpster, all it needed was a fresh coat of paint.” stated one, now confessed dumpster diving addict. Julie Lynn is a mother of three, works as a family healthcare nurse and lives in a lovely home, in a well-respected neighborhood. While she confesses that she really doesn’t need the stuff, she loves the thrill of diving and the unknown of what she might find. Besides, she detests waste of any kind. She states that not all diving trips are profitable but that she generally “scores” on every third trip. Her best friend recently discovered an antique worth well over $3,000. While finds like that are rare, it is always a possibility. Dumpster divas often keep their diving habits a secret. “We have our girls night out, but our husbands think we have gone to get coffee," says Julie. We actually do go for coffee but only after we dive. I always keep my diving clothes with me in the car in case a great opportunity presents itself.
Diving
For Food
America dump more than 96 billion pounds of food per year. The big question that dumpster divers have is, why is perfectly good food being fed to landfills as opposed to hungry people in America. Dumpster divers are driven by many things including; a sincere concern for the earth, a motivation to help others and a desire, or need to live simply. Grocery stores throw food away that may be marked expired or damaged, but is still perfectly edible.
The Dangers of Diving
Like diving to the depths of the ocean, dumpster diving carries with it some very real risks. Eating food that is not properly sealed can be dangerous. Dumpsters may be full of useful items, but they are also unsanitary and loaded with potentially unhealthy materials. Broken glass, human waste, blood and other such garbage can cause serious injury. The risk of being arrested is also a real threat that should be considered. Dumpster diving is definitely not for the faint at heart and should always be done with safety in mind.
Disposable Society
Americans, unlike any other peoples in the world, throw away more in the span of a month than other people do their whole lives. At the same time, more and more people realize that the old saying “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure,” rings true much of the time.
Dumpster Diving Divas
An unlikely group of dumpster divers includes women who view the dumpsters as they do an amazing sidewalk sale at the mall. Suburban women, in search of great dumpster finds, are diving, heels up, into dumpsters all over the country.
“Dumpsters are places where treasure hides,” expresses one dumpster diva. “It is like your very own free yard sale,” expresses another. Many say that their fascination with dumpster diving began when they noticed a piece of furniture, jewelry or artwork that one of their friends had. “I could not believe that she got that beautiful end table from a dumpster, all it needed was a fresh coat of paint.” stated one, now confessed dumpster diving addict. Julie Lynn is a mother of three, works as a family healthcare nurse and lives in a lovely home, in a well-respected neighborhood. While she confesses that she really doesn’t need the stuff, she loves the thrill of diving and the unknown of what she might find. Besides, she detests waste of any kind. She states that not all diving trips are profitable but that she generally “scores” on every third trip. Her best friend recently discovered an antique worth well over $3,000. While finds like that are rare, it is always a possibility. Dumpster divas often keep their diving habits a secret. “We have our girls night out, but our husbands think we have gone to get coffee," says Julie. We actually do go for coffee but only after we dive. I always keep my diving clothes with me in the car in case a great opportunity presents itself.
Diving
For FoodAmerica dump more than 96 billion pounds of food per year. The big question that dumpster divers have is, why is perfectly good food being fed to landfills as opposed to hungry people in America. Dumpster divers are driven by many things including; a sincere concern for the earth, a motivation to help others and a desire, or need to live simply. Grocery stores throw food away that may be marked expired or damaged, but is still perfectly edible.
The Dangers of Diving
Like diving to the depths of the ocean, dumpster diving carries with it some very real risks. Eating food that is not properly sealed can be dangerous. Dumpsters may be full of useful items, but they are also unsanitary and loaded with potentially unhealthy materials. Broken glass, human waste, blood and other such garbage can cause serious injury. The risk of being arrested is also a real threat that should be considered. Dumpster diving is definitely not for the faint at heart and should always be done with safety in mind.
About the Author
Susan Patterson –
I am a work from home writer with a background in environmental studies and an
avid interest in sustainability. I write on a variety of environmental topics
including the significance of radius maps.
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