Ep 87. Garbage

Modern Marvels season 9 episode 87 is all about garbage, one of the most unavoidable and unpleasant aspects of modern life. This fascinating episode delves into the history of garbage, from the first human settlements to the sprawling megacities of today. It explores the ways in which humans have dealt with their waste over the centuries, from throwing it into the streets to burying it in landfills.

The episode begins by examining the history of garbage in ancient civilizations, including the ancient Romans and Greeks. It shows how they dealt with their waste, including using it for fertilizer and throwing it into the streets to be swept away by rain. The episode then moves on to the Industrial Revolution and the explosion in garbage production that came with it. It explores the invention of the "garbage dump" and the first public trash collection systems.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the episode is its exploration of the modern garbage industry. It examines the ways in which garbage is processed and disposed of in modern times, including through recycling and incineration. The episode takes viewers on a tour of modern garbage processing facilities, showing how garbage is sorted, crushed, and burned to produce energy.

The episode also investigates the environmental impact of garbage in modern times. It explores issues such as the creation of garbage islands in the oceans, the production of methane gas in landfills, and the impact of garbage on wildlife. It also examines the ways in which technology is being used to address these issues, such as the development of biodegradable plastics and the use of drones to map garbage islands.

Throughout the episode, Modern Marvels uses a combination of expert interviews, archival footage, and stunning visuals to explore the history and impact of garbage. It is a fascinating and thought-provoking look at one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time. Whether you are an ecologist, a historian, or simply someone who wants to learn more about the world we live in, this episode is not to be missed.

Overall, Modern Marvels season 9 episode 87 is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history and impact of garbage. It is a thought-provoking exploration of one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time, and is sure to leave viewers with a new understanding of the ways in which garbage has shaped our world.