THIS BOOK IS NOT GARBAGE

Practical actions for reducing waste for young readers concerned about the environment.

Science writer Thomas offers 50 doable suggestions for readers keen to reduce their “eco-impact.” The book was originally published in the U.K. in 2018 as This Book Is Not Rubbish, and language, examples, and statistics have been changed for a U.S. readership in most cases. But the title change is misleading. Only a portion of this book is about garbage in the usual sense of kitchen waste; the writer defines waste broadly. Her “eco-tips” include using less water, especially hot water; changing gift and party habits; avoiding glitter and plastic straws; composting and reducing food waste; picking up litter; trading clothing and goods; reducing energy use in myriad ways; repairing and reusing what we have; and avoiding unnecessary use of paper—even greeting cards and school assignments! Even more broadly, she suggests helping the nearby environment, thinking about the environmental costs of food and clothing, and reducing video gaming (evidently an energy hog). One chapter introduces five young eco-warriors; another suggests projects for aspiring citizen scientists. Art projects and even geocaching are other ways to get closer to nature and to show appreciation. Though there is some overlap, most suggestions are different from or complementary to those in companion title This Book Will (Help) Cool the Climate, published in 2020 in the U.K. but simultaneously with this title in this country. Both are useful.

Another rich resource for young eco-warriors.