11 Feb Professor Dumpster Isn’t Just Trash Talk

“The overarching goal of The Dumpster Project, is to test whether one can have a pretty good life while treading lightly on the planet—all from a dumpster that is one percent the size of the average new American home,” Wilson said.

Proving the premise that people can live with less, Huston-Tillotson University’s Dean of the University College and Associate Professor of Biological Sciences, Dr. Jeff Wilson, will move into a 33-square foot dumpster for one year. Wilson, a recognized expert in the fields of Environmental Science and Environmental Health, is also Executive Director of The Dumpster Project, a registered Texas nonprofit focused on transforming sustainability education. He leads the project with a multi-disciplinary team of designers, academics, and students.  In his role as “Professor Dumpster” at HT, he promotes Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education focused on reducing carbon footprints in an engaging, entertaining format. In addition, the newly formed Green is the New Black (GitNB) student organization under his guidance recently captured first place in the nationwide Ford Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Community Challenge held in Detroit, MI. 

“I would like to show that it can be done. We will see if that pans out. If you really can live in one percent the size, use one percent the water, use one percent the electricity and create one percent the waste," said Dr. Wilson. The dumpster from Texas Disposal Systems is six feet by six feet, for a total of 36 square feet. It feels even smaller once you're closed in at night. Dr. Wilson, or Professor Dumpster, is committed to downsizing the American dream.  "You can have a pretty dang good living in one percent the size of the average American home," said Dr. Wilson.

The dumpster from Texas Disposal Systems is six by six feet, for a total of 36 square feet. It feels even smaller once you're closed in at night. He’ll start with just a hammock, but hopes to add solar power, a composting toilet and maybe even a shower. All possible through grants and sponsors including AEN partner, Texas Disposal Systems. Follow Professor Dumpster’s progress on his blog, Facebook and @ProfDumpster on Twitter and Instagram to see how this all sorts out. More info and ways to ‘litter-ally’ participate!