Dumped (BBC America)

DUMPED was designed to force Brits to confront their country's growing waste problem. A group of men and women are sent to live on a landfill in Croyden, England, for three weeks, where they must build a sustainable life from what people have thrown away. The 11 volunteers, many of whom admittedly don't live eco-friendly lifestyles, have to use what they find among the garbage creatively. Eco-design expert Rob Holdway monitors their progress and asks them to think about trash as a valued resource that can be recycled and reused. He also reminds them that while they can they can leave at any time, those who stay until the end will split a £40,000 (about $20,000) prize.

The gang of dump-dwellers, all of whom were expecting to be shipped off to an exotic location for their mission, work together gamely to make the best of their surroundings. Even though they're given hot water, soap, and a limited food supply, they must help each other to avoid getting hurt or -- worse -- bitten by rats and seagulls while scavenging for useful items. They also have to be careful not to get sick. Not surprisingly, living with each other in such dreadful conditions takes its toll; insults and profanity (the BBC doesn't bleep "s--t," though "f--k" is censored) fly as they disagree about how best to survive their time there.

But despite the participants' arguments and strong language, this thoughtful series aims to teach viewers about what everyone can do to protect the environment. Although the show takes place in England, it offers a very concrete example of recycling's -- or, in this case, the lack thereof -- massive impact on the planet. It also highlights the idea that helping the environment begins at home, and that you don't have to travel far away to make a difference. Most importantly, it shows how individuals can make positive steps toward making the world a cleaner place.

TV Rating: NR
Network: BBC America
Cast: Rob Holdway, Tony Gardner
Genre: Reality TV
Where to watch: BBC America