To the Dump
LOOKING FOR A FIELD trip that���ll inspire you? It may sound strange, but I suggest visiting your local landfill. I just went to mine to discard a rug. I returned with a commitment to change my behavior.
The landfill was a surprisingly busy place. This was my first visit, so I was confused about where and how to drop off my rug. Dozens of more-seasoned visitors sped past me to drop off their loads. Seeing them made me ponder the ease with which people throw things away.
I was surprised that a large portion of the items still appeared to be in working condition. Furniture and toys topped this list. I saw several bikes with air in their tires that could have been ridden home. I may have tried to snag a few lawn chairs if not for the ���no scavenging��� signs. Couldn't these have been recycled or passed on to someone else?
Another section that caught my eye was the area for appliances. I had never considered where old appliances ended up. There were dozens of stainless-steel dishwashers and refrigerators. Again, many appeared to be in decent shape. I would guess that most were within a decade of their original purchase. Certainly, some appliances are donated or sold, but why not more?
My landfill experience made me reflect on how wasteful we can be. I���ve since made three pledges to limit my personal waste. First, I���ll try to repair household items when they break. The internet makes it easy to find replacement parts, and it seems like there���s a YouTube video to guide every home repair. I���ve kept dishwashers and barbecues working through such efforts.
Second, I will emphasize quality when making purchase decisions. Pinching pennies is tempting, but there���s truth to the adage that you ���get what you pay for.��� I worked for Patagonia for years and still enjoy the quality of its products. I���d rather have one Patagonia jacket that lasts for decades than a cheaper brand I need to replace repeatedly.
Finally, I���ll try to find someone who can use my old items before I discard them. My preference is to give used items to friends and neighbors. I���ve had success placing bulkier items on the street with a sign that says ���free.��� I won���t get a tax deduction from this form of giving, but I take comfort knowing the goods will be used. In the future, I may consider using the Buy Nothing Project website, which facilitates sharing among neighbors.
A landfill is not a joyful place, but it���s a jarring one. With my three pledges, I hope to stay away for a long time.
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