Overview
From roaring oceans to trickling streams, water covers seventy percent of our planet! But did you know that less than one percent of Earth's water is usable by humans? Most water on Earth is salt water. It can't be used for drinking, bathing, or growing plants. We need freshwater. Yet about two-thirds of Earth's freshwater is frozen at the North and South Poles. And the water we can access-from lakes, rivers, streams, wetlands, or underground sources-is in danger of being polluted. There is not enough water to waste. We must join together in the quest to protect this valuable resource. With engaging text and eye-catching images-plus a special Going Green section-this book tells you all about Earth's water and what you can do to protect it.
Synopsis
From roaring oceans to trickling streams, water covers seventy percent of our planet! But did you know that less than one percent of Earth's water is usable by humans? Most water on Earth is salt water. It can't be used for drinking, bathing, or growing plants. We need freshwater. Yet about two-thirds of Earth's freshwater is frozen at the North and South Poles. And the water we can access-from lakes, rivers, streams, wetlands, or underground sources-is in danger of being polluted. There is not enough water to waste. We must join together in the quest to protect this valuable resource. With engaging text and eye-catching images-plus a special Going Green section-this book tells you all about Earth's water and what you can do to protect it.
Children's Literature
Since water makes life possible on our planet, it is important to know how to protect the Earth's water supply. As a former water chemist for a water treatment plant in a major city in the southwestern United States, I read with great interest the comprehensive coverage of our Earth's water supply provided by this book. Statistics, illustrations, and photographs document the relevant facts about the current status and water pollution perils, both nature and human made, of this vital resource. The value of water to sustain life, pollution problems and solutions, and conservation issues are explained in detail. A final chapter presents a look into the future and showcases proposed new technologies for controlling water pollution and distributing safe water globally. Tips on "going green" will help all consumers protect and avoid waste of our water supply. A glossary defines the scientific vocabulary. Lists for further reading and information about environmental groups provide sources to understand better how to protect this precious resource and ensure our future as a planet. It is an excellent reference for a science curriculum. This book is part of the series, "Saving Our Living Earth," which explores other environmental topics of Earth-Friendly Design, Energy, and Waste Management; Protecting Earth's Air Quality, Land, and Rain Forests; and Understanding Global Warming. Reviewer: Annie Laura Smith