Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #237664 in Books
• Published on: 2006-04-12
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 255 pages

Synopsis
Have you ever thought about how much rubbish you throw away? How every vegetable you buy at the supermarket seems to be wrapped in twice its weight in packaging? "Recycle" is a comprehensive resource that asks all these questions and provides accessible, practical answers on what each individual can do to close the loop. With detailed coverage on the how's what's and where's of recycling, it supplies clear, accessible information about the materials and processes of recycling. These are illustrated by case studies, and a comprehensive international directory points readers on to the organisations and authorities that can assist them in their next steps. "Recycle" is brilliantly illustrated and cleverly designed, with colourful photographs, charts and illustrations bringing the text to life, and providing a much needed antithesis to the traditionally dry treatment of the subject matter. With landfill space dwindling at a shocking pace and climate change tangibly evident, there is a rising awareness of the responsibility we hold for our environment. "Recycle" is a refreshingly accessible and comprehensive resource and will be an indispensable addition to any eco-conscious household.

"Recycle: The Essential Guide" is a basic introduction to the hows, whats, whens, and wheres of recycling. With vibrant visuals and a clear, accessible layout, the book illustrates all angles of the subject - from the urgency of resource depletion to the lighter, consumer oriented aspect of eco-design. "Recycle" opens with an introduction from renowned "Guardian" journalist, Lucy Siegle. In her inimitable way, Siegle contextualises recycling in the changing global economy; discussing the way it has changed throughout the ages, and raising questions about where it is headed. Following the introduction, is a comprehensive section of recyclable materials; Paper, Plastic, Metal, Glass, Household Waste and Compost. Each material is explained in depth; how it is sourced, its impact on the environment, how the recycling process occurs; and what each individual reader can do to facilitate these processes. Interspersed amongst these sections will be a variety of little stories, facts and suggestions for inventive reuse in the home. Colourful and distinctive images run alongside, giving voice to the text. The third section of the book is a series of twenty case studies from around the world.

These case studies pay tribute to exceptionally successful or innovative approaches to recycling, such as those of Green Dot Germany and Curitiba, Brazil, as well as representing the darker side of recycling - that of illegal export of waste to developing countries. Some of the cases will be on a national scale, others small, local initiatives. Together, they illustrate just how global this issue is, and how important it is to learn from others, to find solutions to the ever expanding problem of waste. A consumer directory follows; from chairs made out of bathtubs, to bags made out of billboard banners and strange countertop alternatives of melted mobile phones, this section addresses the issue of eco-design. In order to move forward with recycling, we as consumers need to support the recycling industries, as well as the designers and artists who are using found resources, rather than producing new ones. Funky furniture, clothes and home accessories, brilliantly illustrated, with contact details alongside, will show that ethical living and trendiness don't necessarily contradict each other.

"Recycle" is a call to action, and the penultimate section of the book shows readers how to take that action. A comprehensive international directory points readers in the direction of organisations and companies who can offer advice and solutions to any recycling query they may have. This directory is divided into three sections; governmental, non-governmental and materials. Whether you're wondering about glass recycling or need to get in touch with your local authority, this directory will guide your way. Finally, a glossary clarifies the meaning of all the important recycling terms. It's time to wake up and smell the rubbish. It's time to take responsibility for our waste. "Recycle" is the essential guide for all those who want to take that journey, but aren't sure where to start.

Customer Reviews

The Recycle Bible!
In the beginning there was Recycle: the Essential Guide. Well, if only.

The subject of recycling can sometimes be perceived as dull and old fashioned. This book manages to provide all the essential elements you would need to be clued up on waste while presented in a modern and cool fashion.

An introduction by Lucy Siegle sets the tone. An overview of the history of waste and recycling is followed by a clear statement that we should learn and be inspired by the forces of nature where zero waste is a way of life.

Each recyclable material has its own section where you can find out what the item is composed of, why you should recycle it, any problems encountered, the recycling process itself and useful contacts.

A delicate balance between information and pictures is achieved here to make Recycling as interesting as possible. The text is accurate and concise and the fantastic array of pictures only serves to compliment the information that is present.

It not only provides relevant national information such as the Recycle Now campaign but also highlights projects throughout the world that are both thought provoking and inspiring.

Many books will inspire you to be more eco conscious but then will not supply you with the means of actually achieving this. Yet here, there is a directory of governmental organisations to point you in the right direction and a fantastic Sustainable design directory that shows it is possible to buy recycled goods for every day living. From recycled jewellery made out of metal and rubber to eco friendly flooring made from recycled aluminium, cork, glass and bamboo!

Essential reading??? You bet!