The book has some weaknesses. For example, some chapters cite recent research on the degrading lifecycle of man-made materials, while other chapters cite more dated studies, or no research at all. Also, some of the tips are self-evident. But even I, who have been recycling since the early '80s and was raised by Depression-era parents who encouraged thrifty living, picked up a few new tips.
Given that something so simple as reusing glass jars for food storage is a no-brainer, you'd think we'd have less garbage in our landfills and less pollution in our communities. However, perhaps the issue is more of consumer motivation rather than knowledge. And it's hard to get worked up over a landfill that is not in your neighborhood. In that sense, this book is preaching to the choir. But all in all, a good beginner's guide to green living.
Article comments