It’s not Just Sea Lions in a Dumpster: Connecting our Food Waste and Ecology

A local fish market in Puerto Montt, Chile hosts an array of characters. The most popular ones are arguably the sea lions that use the market’s dumpsters as a local hangout spot. These lovable creatures causes us to consider our relationships to the natural world. Should we be disconnected? Or can we embrace these connections for mutual benefit?

Puerto Montt, Chile

The seaside city of Puerto Montt is nestled in the Los Lagos Region of the Patagonian Mountains. Many people rely on fisheries for income.

Marine and Avian Life

Dolphins and sea lions can be found in the waters around Puerto Montt, as well as many bird species overhead. Both rely on marine fish species for survival.

Hacking the System

Instead of fending for themselves, local sea lions waddle onto the local fish market and make themselves comfortable among the dumpsters. They wait for unsold fish to be discarded, either by the bag or thrown to them by local children.

A Popular Destination

Puerto Montt tourists come to visit the thousand-pound mammals that are reminiscent of dogs under a kitchen table patiently waiting for scraps.

Everyone Wants in on the Action

Sea lions aren’t the only ones reaping the benefits from our food waste. Up to 10 bird species can be found near the dumpsters collecting fish, including vultures, pelicans, and seagulls.

Limiting Food Waste

Given that human food waste is such a big problem, causing unnecessary emissions and creating management issues, maybe it’s not so bad to have a little help from friends.

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