Individuals recover valuable items including scooters and shampoo from commercial bins

For CAs

• Practitioners should note that individuals are engaging in dumpster diving to retrieve discarded items such as clothes, scooters, and shampoo from commercial bins to avoid retail costs.
• Professionals advising clients must be aware that participants in this underground economy acquire functional merchandise either for personal use or for resale.
• Advisors should inform clients exploring alternative sourcing about the need to remain aware of local trespassing laws and health regulations governing commercial waste bins.

For businesses

• Commercial retailers typically discard unsold inventory due to overstock or minor defects.
• Dumpster divers capitalize on these disposals to secure personal items or items for resale, saving hundreds in the process.
• Businesses and the public should understand that this practice reflects a subculture focused on waste reduction, frugality, and resourcefulness in response to consumer waste and economic pressures.