The Art Of Freeganism: Finding And Using Discarded Goods
Definition
Freeganism is a lifestyle of scavenging for free goods, such as food, clothing, and household items, that have been discarded by others. It is often referred to as “dumpster diving” and is a form of extreme frugality. Freegans are motivated by environmental, economic, and ethical considerations.
History
The term “freeganism” was coined in the 1990s by a group of environmental activists in New York City who wanted to promote a more sustainable way of living. The idea was to reduce consumption and waste by making use of the abundance of discarded items that would otherwise end up in landfills. The movement quickly gained traction and spread across the United States and Europe.
Benefits
The primary benefit of freeganism is that it reduces waste and helps preserve the environment. By reusing discarded items, freegans help reduce the amount of waste that is sent to landfills. Freegans also save money by not having to purchase new items, and are able to obtain items that may be difficult or expensive to find otherwise.
Risks
The main risk of freeganism is the potential health hazard of consuming discarded food. Freegans should always be aware of the source of the food they are consuming, and should always practice safe food handling techniques. Additionally, freegans should be aware of the legal risks of dumpster diving, as it is illegal in some areas.
Technique
Dumpster diving is the most common method of freeganism. Dumpster diving involves rummaging through trash bins and dumpsters for items that have been discarded. Dumpster diving for food is also known as “urban foraging.” A common dumpster diving technique is to use a flashlight or headlamp to search for items in the dark.
Conclusion
Freeganism is a lifestyle of scavenging for free goods that have been discarded by others. It is a form of extreme frugality that has environmental, economic, and ethical benefits. However, there are some risks associated with freeganism, such as the potential health hazard of consuming discarded food and the legal risks of dumpster diving. Is Freeganism a dumpster diving? Yes.