Recyclables or Valuables? A Look at "Free" Boxes and Their Typical Issues
In the charming cities of Freiburg and Konstanz, "free to take" boxes have become a common sight on street corners. These cardboard boxes, filled with a variety of items such as books, clothing, kitchen utensils, decorative items, furniture, toys, and curiosities, have been a source of joy for many residents who find hidden treasures within. However, these boxes have also been causing issues for city cleaning services.
The Waste Management and Street Cleaning Department (ASF) in Freiburg has been dealing with the increased workload caused by these boxes. Soggy books and soaked clothes, which are not wanted and are not removed from the boxes, cause annoyance for residents and the city. Items left in these boxes that are not taken often remain there, becoming problematic, especially after rain.
Broken or unusable items, such as defective electronics, old mattresses, and other trash, are frequently found in these boxes. ASF emphasizes that "free to take" boxes are not a solution to the waste problem, but a "wild dump".
In response, ASF is now distributing information flyers at common locations of "free to take" boxes, listing alternatives for giving away used items. Online platforms, social stores, and book or swap boxes in many places are presented as viable options.
In Freiburg, "free to take" boxes are officially illegal on sidewalks, but have been tolerated. An organization aiming to improve the use of these boxes and promote responsible behavior in their use is the Freddy Sammelaktion initiative, which provides structured collection centers and points for responsibly handling materials. However, no specific Freiburg-based organization targeting illegal "kostenlos nehmen" boxes was identified in the provided information.
The goal of these alternatives is to raise awareness about the waste problem, promote responsible handling, and encourage people to use them instead of "free to take" boxes. Many residents appreciate the opportunity to find and give away items in these boxes, but it is clear that a more structured and responsible approach is needed.
In a heartwarming incident in Konstanz, a small dog was found tied to a pole with a "free to take" sign. The presence of these boxes can lead to unexpected encounters, adding a touch of community spirit to the cities they inhabit. Despite their appeal, it is crucial to address the issues they pose and to find sustainable solutions that benefit both residents and the cities themselves.
