The Other Side of Consumption: Sorting, Storing and Discarding in Vilnius Domestic Life

Abstract: This thesis provides an overview of Vilnius citizens’ practices of sorting, storing and disposal. Comparative perspectives from different settings: Vilnius, Copenhagen and Jeddah will highlight that waste is contextual – heavily influenced by cultural norms and habits. A historical perspective is incorporated to understand how different generations have developed routines and norms, and to what extent these cultural practices have been taken over by the youth. My approach in explaining the varying practices is based upon cultural analysis. There is a strong focus on how people learn to categorize and label stuff, redefining them as waste or something to save or not yet get rid of.