The LRB Podcast Where does our waste go?
11 snips
Nov 19, 2025 Brett Christophers, a human geographer and author of "The Price Is Wrong," delves into the hidden life of our waste. He reveals the grim reality of how affluent nations offload their waste onto poorer countries, leading to hazardous accumulation in cities like Accra and Delhi. The discussion spans the challenges of recycling, the ties between plastics and the oil industry, and the environmental impact of fast fashion. Christophers calls for systemic change rather than reliance on individual actions in tackling the waste crisis.
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Putting Out A Bin Prompted The Question
- Thomas describes putting a plastic recycling bin outside and having it collected the next morning, prompting questions about what happens next.
- Brett responds that some items like cans are recycled but much plastic likely isn't and may be exported.
Waste Disposal Ties Into Climate Harms
- Waste management choices link closely to fossil-fuel industries and climate impacts.
- Incinerating waste (energy from waste) can produce more CO2 per unit electricity than burning coal in some cases.
Toxic Waste Became An Exported Commodity
- From the 1980s companies exported toxic waste because overseas disposal was far cheaper than compliant domestic options.
- Some countries accepted waste for revenue, framing it as a choice between 'poison or poverty.'
