I would say that it's in man's nature to hoard, wealth is normally measured in material possession, greed drives humanity. That has little to do with ones geographical location. It's people's perception of things which make a major difference, a knackered washing machine to some people is junk, however to someone that deals with scrap there is financial gain.
One man's junk is another man's treasure.
As the latest fad comes in things which have been "Upcycled" become trendy and become worth more. The reality is that it's always had worth as long as you've had the vision to see it, however your situation and taste will also colour that which we covet.
BR is correct in as much as modern society is very wasteful, the worst thing is with the attitude that goes with it we also lose skills. The attitude of why bother fixing it when I can buy something new to replace it for less becomes relevant here and once again that comes down to material wealth, possession and ultimately greed.
Not a lecture, just an observation.