The city of Fort Bragg's Glass Beach is likely the most functional and artistically relevant use of disposed garbage I've ever seen.
Beginning in 1949, the citizens of the small Californian city threw their refuse directly into the Pacific -- garbage bags, bottles and even wrecked cars. Although some efforts were made to clear the beach using fires in the mid-60s, the most effective cleanup method was time. After years of crashing waves, the exposed glass pieces were dulled, smoothed and made to shimmer in the light. And now, thanks to more recent efforts by local preservation societies and artists, Glass Beach is open to the same public that once referred to it as "The Dump."
The familiar three tones of soda and beer bottles -- brown, green and clear -- make for an outstanding live art piece and a penetrating message about our waste.
Scrap Heap Swimming
The Fort Bragg Glass Beach Proves the Usefulness of Garbage
Trend Themes
1. Upcycling Garbage - Opportunity for businesses to creatively repurpose discarded materials and turn them into valuable products or artworks.
2. Sustainable Tourism - Opportunity for tourism industry to promote environmentally friendly destinations and attractions, like the Fort Bragg Glass Beach.
3. Social Awareness Art - Opportunity for artists to use their work to spread messages about wastefulness and environmental responsibility.
Industry Implications
1. Recycling - Disruptive innovation opportunity to develop new recycling technologies and processes for transforming waste into usable materials.
2. Hospitality and Travel - Disruptive innovation opportunity to develop eco-friendly accommodations and attractions that promote sustainability and conservation.
3. Art and Design - Disruptive innovation opportunity to create art and designs that raise awareness about social and environmental issues, like the impact of garbage on our planet.