The ultimate budget-conscious consumer?

Vying to be the ultimate budget-conscious consumer? Check out "Freeganism," a lifestyle of alternative living strategies focused on minimal participation in the conventional economy and limited use of its resources.

A global movement starting in the 1990s, freeganism was born out of environmentalism and antiglobalization. Freegans don't judge a book by its cover. Freegans value kindness, humanity, freedom, sharing, generosity and truth in a society that is heavily dominated by materialism, power, competition and conformity. Most freegans are very well informed, not only of current events blaring from the TV set.

However, not everyone is buying the concept.

Freeganism is a radical belief and practice. Money is not given to corporations. Focused on the ethics of eating, Freegans "forage" for food in corporate dumpsters, and are known to shoplift from major corporations. A large portion of this food is given to the hungry on the streets. The rest of the food is taken for themselves. The downside to the movement is a political statement, questioning the current system of money distribution. However, Freegans proudly give their money to local businesses and local farms.

Nick Simmons, from Wisconsin, has been on both sides of the spectrum but has finally found some peace and happiness living purposefully and sparingly. Simmons started a business salvaging, building and repairing bicycles. Simmons says, "It's not about being a martyr for any political or moral reason. It's about knowing how to survive and knowing how to give yourself a decent life," adding that he's not ready to put himself back on the financial grid.

Of course, freeganism isn't for everyone.

Interested in the lifestyle but not ready to take the dumpster-diving plunge? Maybe volunteer at a local shelter, start a compost, recycle your trash and, while you're at it, shop for free at Freecycle.com.

Click here for more details.