Total Garbage: How We Can Fix Our Waste and Heal Our World by Edward Humes is an eye-opening examination of a pervasive problem that plagues modern society: waste. Humes vividly illustrates the destructive consequences of our pursuit of convenience and excess, from overflowing landfills to the depletion of natural resources.
One of the more distressing aspects of Total Garbage is Humes’ exploration of the psychological and emotional toll of our disposable lifestyle. Through insightful analysis and poignant anecdotes, he delves into the sense of emptiness and disconnection that accompanies our relentless pursuit of the next new thing. Humes challenges readers to confront the value of their possessions and experiences by exposing the hidden costs of our disposable mindset.
However, Total Garbage is not just a critique. Humes also presents a compelling vision for a more sustainable future, offering actionable solutions and inspiring examples of individuals and communities striving to break free from the cycle of waste. From innovative recycling initiatives to grassroots movements advocating for change, Total Garbage is a beacon of hope in an otherwise bleak landscape.
While Total Garbage may be a sobering read, it is ultimately a testament to the power of awareness and collective action. By confronting the uncomfortable truths of our throwaway culture, Humes empowers readers to embrace a more conscientious way of living — prioritizing stewardship over squandering and connection over consumption.
Humes also wrote Garbology: Our Dirty Love Affair With Trash. To read more before you grab one of his books, check out his opinion piece in the March 15, 2024 Los Angles Times.