A collective of tech enthusiasts in Argentina, known as the Cyber Dumpster Divers, is redefining how electronic waste is perceived and utilized. This creative consortium kicked off its work back in 2019. They creatively transform broken e-waste into other products, provoking the culture of planned obsolescence. Argentina produces about 520,000 tons of e-waste annually. The collective’s creative work not only inspires environmental awareness and action — it encourages social change.
Like the Cyber Dumpster Divers, they work in decentralized, self-organized teams known as chapters or cells, creating a culture and atmosphere of teamwork, imagination and art. Exploring the political ecology of e-waste Their manifesto is heavily influenced by the techno-political teachings of Karl Marx. The aesthetic of the collective’s eye-popping street art, which includes a cyborg Che Guevara, is rooted in their combativeness against consumerism, overproduction, and wastefulness.
A Personal Journey in Technology
Esteban Palladino, 47, a musician who performs under the name Uctumi, is another key pillar of the collective. Palladino, who lives with diabetes, has a long-standing interest in technology. He’s just as committed to tearing down the society’s rush-to-ditch-it mentality.
He articulates the mission of the Cyber Dumpster Divers succinctly: “We experiment with technology by trying to recycle it and repurpose items that other people would simply throw away.” It’s through their efforts that members like Palladino hope to restore the conversation on electronics and their lifespan.
We Argentines often identify with the collective’s philosophy on a profound level. They are intimidated by the commercial pressures to always be getting new technology. “It’s about reclaiming the right to recognize when things work or don’t work, not being told they work or don’t work,” one member noted.
Addressing Societal Impacts
The consequences of electronic waste are not only environmental, but social. Cristian Rojo, another recycler in the collective, reflects on this. In the book, he drives home the bigger reality we’re facing by using technology with young people. He states, “It’s this ecosystem that is destroying the social fabric, destroying the psyche of young people.” This all-too-familiar feeling reflects a distinct cultural wakefulness to the mental health crises associated with too much screen time and consumerism.
The annual meetings of the Cyber Dumpster Divers is where all of this experimentation and ideation life happens. Our most recent, third annual meeting was just held this past week in Buenos Aires. It included dynamic workshops and presentations aimed at teaching attendees about sustainable practices in technology. Read more about this gathering, which reflects the goals of this collective. Beyond that, it ignites lively debate amongst participants about what the future of e-waste should be.
A Movement Forged in Creativity
The spirit of the Cyber Dumpster Divers is charitable, political, and playful. Their projects often intertwine these elements to create a unique community experience. Members participate in what they have dubbed hardware soup kitchens. Here, electronics enthusiasts exchange old, broken, or unwanted electronic components rather than purchasing new ones.
Juan Carrique, another active member of the collective, emphasizes the value of this hands-on approach: “It’s not the same to buy something ready-made as having to make it yourself, using pieces of trash.” This hands-on philosophy inspires ingenuity and innovation within participants, equipping them with the skills needed to upcycle waste into useful products.
The overarching message conveyed through their work is succinctly captured in their slogan: “Old things work.” This mantra is intended to inspire the belief that value can be discovered in what our culture might see as past its prime.