For 30 Days I Wore Every Piece of Trash I Created

The average American creates 4.5 pounds of trash per day but most people never think twice about the trash they make. Once it’s in the garbage can, it’s out of sight, out of mind. Rob Greenfield wanted to create a visual that would help people understand just how much trash they create and inspire them to make positive changes. So for 30 days, he lived just like the average American and he wore every piece of trash he created. 4.5 pounds a day really adds up! This is what it looked like.
Go to www.robingreenfield.org/trashme to learn more.
Thanks to BBTV and Outspeak for helping fund this project!
Robin Greenfield is a truth-seeker, activist, social reformer and servant to Earth, humanity and our plant and animal relatives. He lives simply and sustainably to be the change he wishes to see in the world. Through living closely connected to Earth, he rejects the status quo of consumerism and demonstrates a way of being in gratitude, mindfulness and presence. His life is an experiment with truth and integrity.
Robin’s public activism involves dramatic actions designed to provoke critical thought, self-reflection and positive change. His activism creates nuanced conversations on the critical issues of our time, with a focus on solutions for living in harmony.
His life’s work has been covered by media worldwide and he has been named “The Robin Hood of Modern Times” by France 2 TV and “The Forrest Gump of Ecology”.
Robin has committed to earning below the federal poverty threshold for life and donates 100% of his media earnings to grassroots nonprofits, with a focus on supporting Black and Indigenous women-led organizations.
This channel is a resource for all who seek to liberate themselves, to live in truth and integrity, and to live in harmony with Earth, humanity and the plants and animals we share this home with.
Robin Greenfield and Dear Friends share means of achieving liberation and harmony through sustainable living, simple living, tiny house living, foraging, growing food and medicine, minimalism, zero waste, earth-skills, food sovereignty, community resilience, compassionate communication, activism, Black Liberation, Indigenous Sovereignty and living in service.
Find Robin Greenfield on:
Website: www.robingreenfield.org
KZbin: / @robin.greenfield
Instagram: / robin.greenfield @Robin.Greenfield
Facebook: / robingreenfieldpage
Robin Greenfield’s work is offered as a gift to the public domain. This content is Creative Commons and is free to be copied, republished and redistributed. Learn about Creative Commons and follow the guidelines here: www.robingreenfield.org/creat...

[@Robin.Greenfield]

Here is my guide to help you get to near zero waste, starting one step at a time: www.robgreenfield.org/waste

[@DDJThomas01]

Definitely drives the point home. Glad you're doing what you are.

[@ReflectionsofLife]

Much respect - keep inspiring we appreciate it.

[@Robin.Greenfield]

So much respect for all you are doing as well Green Renaissance!

[@princess7strawberry]

Ugh, this was hurtful to watch. Hard-hitting where it needed to be. Needs to be shared with everyone!

[@rumi9005]

Living cleaner doesn't take a massive amount of effort. My wife and I cut down our trash to almost nothing. There's only the two of us, but we put out little garbage. We put out one large garbage bag of non-recyclable trash about every 6 to 8 weeks. We put out a 'blue-box' box of recyclable containers etc. once every two months, one 'blue-box' box of paper about once every 6 months. We have a back yard, so we compost most of our food waste. We put one municipal 'compostable' waste container to the curb every 2 months. VERY IMPORTANT! First, for two weeks, just eat vegetarian. That'll cut down on your meat consumption going forward because you won't be craving meat any more. Also, no sugar, candy or manufactured food for the two weeks too (that'll get you past all the cravings). We're not vegetarian, we just don't eat a lot of meat, about one meat meal a week. We eat LOTS OF VEGGIES (use a food blender like the Nutribullet if you're not too keen on veggies). Don't worry. Once you get your taste buds working again you'll find out vegetables actually taste pretty good. Only eat potatoes once a week (they're high-glycemic so you don't want to eat too much potatoes). Instead eat grains - rice, quinoa, buckwheat etc. most meals. Don't buy packaged cereals. One manufactured food meal a week. Fast food once a month. Avoid sugar (we buy one 2kg bag of sugar about three times a year (but that's pretty radical). Once candy bar a week, less if you can manage it. Make it an occasional treat. No chips etc. AND NO SOFT DRINKS - YOUR BODY WILL THANK YOU! Cut out white bread! Have heavy, whole grain bread OCCASIONALLY. The bread most people eat is the worst. Cut wheat consumption drastically (we're ALL allergic to gluten, whether we like it or not). Avoid fruit juices - high in sugar (even when pure. Mostly fructose - the worst sugar). But, eat LOTS OF FRUIT. We make a super large batch of veggie soup/stew (lots of veggies, not so much liquid). Then freeze it in many containers (30 main meals). Don't add the potatoes or grains, or the protein source the (add them when you heat up the stew). Eat this every second day. Intersperse with omelettes and whatever (healthy) for the other main meals. Basically, cut out the crap! Get plenty of exercise. Don't over-eat. Eat out once a month. It sounds hard at first but once you go the two weeks you'll have cured most of your cravings. After that it's pretty easy. Adjust to taste. We're all different, so make changes that suit you. That way you'll stick with the better way to eat. And do your own research! Finally, avoid over-packaged stuff where possible. Reduce, re-use, recycle - IN THAT ORDER!

[@saluto1397]

You are an inspiration too

[@AbhiMahuaVlogs]

More people need to watch this!! This is a very difficult and inspiring task Rob has accomplished. We need millions of views.

[@SEMPERFL0RENS]

LOVE THIS! Keep spreading the message, Rob!

[@JDMumma]

BRILLIANT! I think it would be great (even more influential) if there was a sequel that showed the tools, techniques, strategies you use to lived for 30 days practically waste free!

[@Robin.Greenfield]

Hey JD! That would be great. I don't have that but here is my guide on how to live a waste free life: www.robgreenfield.tv/waste

[@andrewj.6728]

3:04 that guys shirt was way too small😂

[@user-tz2mc3sy2e]

HOW DARE YOU! SUCH XENOPHOBIA! IT WAS PROBABLY RECYCLED!

[@kperalta87]

very thought provoking, its very easy to throw items out without thinking of the consequences or real volume. Thanks for the video checked out your website looks great. Is there any one tip or idea that got you started on the zero waste path and kept you on it? thanks

[@Robin.Greenfield]

One of the big things that got me started was watching The Story of Stuff. It was a huge awakening. my guide on How to Live a Near Zero Waste Lifestyle should be very helpful for you and it includes other great resources: www.robgreenfield.tv/waste

[@jenlinds1]

This is the first video of yours I’d seen yrs ago & it just popped into my feed. This one was such & eyeopener to me. Thx for your tireless work delving wholeheartedly. 💛

[@essexbeachcleans8861]

This is such a brilliant campaign and video, shocking but also fun. Thank you for creating it and linking so many aspects of waste together 👌

[@jessicatunick34]

I feel so inspired now! Thanks Rob!

[@capi1lope]

It's a great awareness tool Rob! Several hundred million more views are needed, hope the word gets out!

[@willm5814]

Awesome! You are making a difference - keep us informed!!!

[@livingthegoodlifewithrushk6915]

Thankyou thankyou for this. You will reach many people this way. Respect.

[@marcellaobdrzalek8435]

brilliant. epic. this will be shared. the world needs more people with creative humble and humorous approaches to bringing change. thank you for all that you do and all that you are!!

[@sarahmi7393]

I literally have tears when I watch your channel.. thank you for doing this and keep inspiring!

[@mimomur]

Hi I m french and I descovere your actions today and now I support you... 💪💪💪Frome Marseille

[@johnfry]

What great way to talk about this issue!

[@AlexLeeFilms]

You're amazing. keep inspiring!

[@bigfoothunter9968]

One thousand thumbs up!! Thank you for spreading awareness.

[@rebeccac2358]

Amazing video. I shop at bulk food stores where I collect my food using reusable bags and glass jars. Avoiding as much waste as possible. Using sustainable reusable products. I like the way you are making people more aware of this issue so as a nation we can cut down on waste and help the environment

[@cocodessin9799]

Well done, continue Rob

[@AlbertoApuCRC]

Inspiring my friend, we will follow your example

[@jacobisthename5003]

That is so amazing and so Thoughtful

[@anon2951]

Yeah :-)

[@isaacisaac6666]

God bless your hard work Rob. Regards from Oman 🇴🇲

[@EricLundgrenCEO]

You Rock Brother! Kudos from Eric Lundgren aka Mr. Green. Keep up the great work!

[@ezybella]

Beautiful work - it brings tears to my eyes. Keep it up ♥️

[@gogobeastdude]

lol, how do you read my mind? lol love what you do man, you single handedly restore hope for humanity

[@maundonitz9849]

appreciated much you guys God bless your way of living

[@ciaraf4158]

Watching this has made me become more conscious with my waste and my spending. Before my partner and I go to the store we will take inventory of everything. We reuse jars and we save boxes. Thank you for doing this Rob

[@malathikarthik302]

Really u r ...I can't explain in words such a person...I like more...

[@joea104]

Dam man your a REALLY AWESOME HUMAN I REALLY LIKE your channel keep up the good work

[@sheenapearlbarandino3776]

Its wonderful what you are doing 🌿

[@ivy886]

I'm taking a life and environment class in the Providence university, the teacher show us this video! Very good idea!! Inspiring!!

[@PostmanStudio]

Respect, it's a very genious and creative way to communicate this message.

[@kumara5492]

You are the real hero of my life. I always make sure I minimize the use of plastic. From now on I'll cut that down to zero. No plastic is the only way to show much respect to the one and only one habitable planet which is our planet among billions of planets and only those who think like humans ( created in the image of God, and not social animals ) can adopt this lifestyle. Thank you for making such inspirational video.

[@ruthvaldes6491]

I love your video. I’m a teacher and I will show this to my students. Thank you!

[@Blackhuf]

You are awsome, Rob!

[@littleredhen3354]

🤣 awesome! I love taking stuff to its logical extreme in order to demonstrate a line of thinking or mindset.

[@clara5941]

This needs more attention

[@commonsense6297]

Trashformer🤣🤣🔥🔥🔥...this was amazing!!! We will watch as a family later bc it was so well communicated and not attacking or shaming in any way. I just found your material. Be well.

[@andreaheigold1574]

Dear Rob, Thanks for your ever inspiring videos!! I live in Germany and since you mentioned our bulk supermarkets...well, those stores aren't that wide spread. Also they are mostly boutiquey-like, only affordable for the money-rich. Some regular supermarkets have a little bulk section, but that's also always more expensive than any packaged item. I don't know how the prices are in the US, I'm just hoping that there will be more options to avoid packaging in the future. Btw, dumpster diving is "verboten" here. I still remember the days when I lived off yummy dumpster potatoes during a trip to Canada 😅

[@xXSunshineReggaeXx]

Great job!

[@soulsearched5108]

Keep it up bro our world needs someone like you

[@fedupfactionproductions]

Respect bro 👊👏

[@Jake24378]

Damn good video!

[@yellooh]

Walking the talk Well done!

[@logancraig4234]

my dad and i throw away 1 trash bag every 2 to 3 weeks...we dont use much...

[@ErikHawk]

Awesome!

[@grettonhometutor2742]

Good Job you are a hero🙂

[@melanieallen8980]

love this video!!!😀

[@elsplace896]

Have a lot of respect for you, doing something not just talking about it.

[@nevergiveupmotivation9816]

Thanks for your great job

[@xiaoxiaobaibobo]

Thank you for taking the brave steps. Now I want to say many environmentalists or claim themselves environmental loves, are not applying or changing their lifestyles in daily basis, which still ironically producing many garbage, and think of recycle is the main solution. They need to take little actions in their daily actions. How amazing that, many kept saying they love the planet, but keep using and buying plastic and plastic packages products.

[@laurablack2262]

Seeing people completely ignore and walk by you on the street tells me enough about where you did this.

[@pierrenormandeau5414]

I adore You Rob and All that You are doing for our beautiful Planet !

[@meimeijiang5945]

Thank u so much !!

[@wunderwaffle3602]

Greetings from your hometown of Ashland, Wisconsin!

[@erikskarvan6895]

Way to go! Sending our love & support from our annual TRASH CRUSH community clean-up and awareness raiser in Aspen! If we all do a bit, it will mean a lot for the environment. Is it OK to leave our mess for future generations? Pitkin County Landfill is almost full and loves to share "Refuse, reduce, reuse & recycle."

[@Back-handedLuck-ul7ms]

I would have to just sit there and wave my arms and legs around ( if I could!). You have made me think.

[@davidmacdonald4254]

We have 1 bag of garbage every 3 weeks, we compost, feed left over meats to the birds and burn all paper and boxes also i grow a garden every year in my back yard. But as i live in Cape Breton Canada we have a short growing season.

[@xilef_690]

Very good video

[@AmHuongMonChay]

respect all his activities 💚

[@TP-fl9ul]

Funny and great action guy

[@T_m_m170]

You're the one who can raise issues, There are not many such courageous people in Japan.

[@kristinadodd2307]

your awesome man

[@Theimpromptulife]

Brilliant

[@punkseth1]

Rob Greenfield, I love you. Thank you. I just found your videos this week and honestly it's changed my life. I'm gonna drop out of the rat race and be a human

[@tulayamalavenapi4028]

🌳💜😍🙏🏻🍎👏🏻

[@jaidev_gamidi]

Nice thought bro

[@mayanlogos92]

Oh my goodness.. I love you!

[@saidanizineddine6101]

Hey Rob, you're doing such a good job, but what was the impact after doing this experience? do you think that such experimentations need to be more schoking in the future?

[@rodolfopena3619]

Thank you , what you are doing is great . We sell recycled products but like you said the solution is within ourselves keep it up!!

[@Greisyhh]

Yes!!! I came across this video and I couldn't agree more. one of my goals is to spread this awareness among young people like me . would you have any tips on topics I can start on? Id love to collab . let me know and thank you for this example and for the facts because I know it takes more to research. sustainably vegan is another channel that inspires me and goes into depth with zero waste subjects if anyone wants to learn more.

[@Robin.Greenfield]

Hi Greisy! My website is loaded with information and inspiration on how to make less trash and live more environmentally friendly. Here is my guide on how to live a near zero waste life that should be very helpful: www.robgreenfield.tv/waste Love to you!

[@andrewjones6181]

Rob -- This is so great. Some other resources for others who want to engage in this sort of experiment: 1. Diana Dehm's annual "Trash on Your Back Challenge" -- www.trashonyourback.com 2. The history of this experiment, from my friends and me at Dartmouth College in 1989. (We only made it 7 days. Not 30!) Drew

[@beautymyreligion]

love the fact that you eat a plant based diet in your normal life! saves resources and energy 😍

[@sallyhun3024]

He was eating a pizza in the video

[@abbeym9528]

@@sallyhun3024 He was only eating it to mimic the lifestyle of the average American. Normally he eats plant-based

[@rheadominisac282]

A new superhero!

[@Thresher55]

This guy is a fucking epic homie and I wish I could be more like him. Goddamn he likes Gandhi too and is down too Earth. A true brahmachari. I hope I can grow to become much like him.

[@snackgila]

In indonesia, last 3 days ago, i went to tradisional wet market, i exchanged my product with organic trash such a cassava peel or yam peel. I told them, i will bring the organic trash such yam and cassava peels, i need that for my gardening soil. And they prepare for me , every day or when they had the trash.

[@cassyytb9632]

Hello Rob

[@shawng4886]

Go do this on the south side of Chicago... getting off the freeways down there is like literally looking into a garbage can... sadly, the north side of my hometown of Milwaukee, WI isn’t far off either... The world we live in pure chaos... btw, fellow Wisconsinite here! And yeah, been here for all 32 years of my life and the cold takes more of a toll every year...

[@Wicho_510]

Definitivamente es una forma muy llamativa he imparcatante para ver todos los desechos que generamos y si realmente nos gustaría vivir con nuestros deschos

[@michellecelesteNW]

A fashion statement actually worth talking about.

[@SandraHernandez-du3vj]

Te lo pido de favor la verdad no le entiendo nada en inglés pero me encantaría saber más sobre hacer un huerto gracias

[@aghiles9167]

thanks dude for tha

[@evandorco5193]

Your the best man thanks for teaching the humanure thing i only use woodchips now instead of flushing waste into oceans and people drinking water

[@nanyondohalimah2476]

Indeed 😃😃

[@lizasaniefard3724]

Love you soooo much

[@mrak8023]

I saw you in a newton episode in NRK do you remember?

[@loricochran4692]

Love the vids, and hope my edited clarified my understanding.

[@loricochran4692]

You also the real mvps

[@patriciaking7892]

Really knowing this info is scary. Make you really think about our Earth.

[@anon2951]

If every person was like you the world probably be absolutely fine. thanks for everything. and just wondering how much kilos did you burn just from wearing all that trash?Also how did you eat dinner cause with all the trash I probably wouldn't be able to walk. :-)

[@Dzk_elias2025]

respect

[@Jenny1989redroses]

this is from Amelia, you look like a robot! well done!🙃

[@mokal4963]

Thank you for the wake up!! I do my part but capitalism and greed won’t stop.

[@loricochran4692]

My comments wont post on my posts? But I originally tried to say on my first post that, (not like turning over a landfill and releasing gas, but future generations after it may be used to grow). sequestered in it's own way or at least lessened. Turned once to pop the seeds like cutting invasives? Maybe.

[@loricochran4692]

I think I now understand it as traffic regulation for post, though idk. I'm developing, but think it is because how many comments may be live on a channel at a given time the context would be like a debate with no respect to debate, so average i guess with context of text, instead of word of mouth. Telephone effect, wtf ever what feels right people? Not like sana, hot tub, like kids and future.

[@deanweis6085]

You gotta go to Philadelphia and run the Rocky Steps in your trash suit.

[@DKCkiduniya]

we have to create more awareness about not creating more thrash

[@tripelogdarkness]

❤️❤️❤️❤️