Smarty Pants Overconsumed
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Nov 29, 2024 Adam Minter, a journalist and author of "Junkyard Planet" and "Secondhand: Travels in the New Global Garage Sale," dives into the complex world of consumption and waste. He discusses the journey of discarded electronics from North America to Ghana, offering insights into their resale value. Minter also examines the impact of secondhand markets on local economies and the moral implications of decluttering. The conversation touches on cultural perceptions of secondhand goods and advocates for sustainable consumption through durable products and the right to repair.
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Unwanted Donations
- People assume that donated items will be wanted and loved by others.
- However, most donated items are not reused or loved in the same way.
Post-Mortem Value
- Most household items lose value after the owner's death.
- Only precious metals or valuable artwork retain their worth.
Thrift Store Sales
- Thrift stores only sell about one-third of donated items.
- The remaining items are either sold to emerging markets, turned into raw materials, or end up in landfills.
