Waste and Recycling

School Library Journal

Gr 1–3—Animal Rescue addresses how and why animals become endangered and what can be done. Pollution discusses activities that are harming the planet and how individuals can prevent or minimize their effects. Waste suggests how discarded items can be reduced, reused, and recycled. All of the books feature large, full-color photos with one or two paragraphs of large-print text per page. "Find Out More" boxes scattered throughout give additional facts with related websites and "You Choose" boxes ask students questions regarding important choices they can make to alleviate these situations. These well-designed books will be useful for reports and general interest.—Caroline Geck, Newark Public Schools, NJ

Children's Literature - Amie Rose Rotruck

As technology has advanced, the amount of waste generated by humans has increased drastically. Also, the products that humans require and demand are using up the Earth's resources faster than they can be replenished. Recycling is a way to reduce the amount of waste produced, and to re-use materials. Materials that can be easily recycled include glass, metal, paper, textiles, and plastics. Cars, appliances, and electronic equipment (such as computers and cell phones) are becoming more of a problem because they are easier and less expensive to replace than repair, as well as having special recycling requirements to avoid pollution. Wealthy countries tend to re-use items less because most of their citizens can afford to replace things. However, because of regulations and environmental awareness, recycling is becoming easier and more common in countries like the United States. There are also ways to use organic waste for compost and even to create energy. Morgan lets people know that in addition to taking part in community recycling programs, shopping for products that minimize packaging and avoiding single-use products can cut down on waste. A valuable resource for an educational unit on recycling and environmental science. Part of the "Sustainable Futures" series.