Five Books for Your Environmental Reading List
Whether you stretch out in the sun or curl up on your sofa, August is a wonderful time to dive into a good book. We searched the archives for some that relate to our four main initiatives: ending litter, reducing waste, promoting recycling, and beautifying communities, and thought we would share our favorite finds. If you love sustainability as much as we do, you’ll want to add these to your summer reading list.
1. The Death and Life of American Cities, by Jane Jacobs
Originally published in 1961, this book has become an essential framework for anyone interested in placemaking (the collaborative process of creating public spaces that promote health, happiness, and well-being). Jacobs argues for mixed-use neighborhoods, walkability, historical preservation, and shaping communities around their most essential aspect: the people who live there. If you’re interested in what makes cities thrive and what holds them back, you should definitely give this a try.
2. 101 Ways to Go Zero Waste, by Kathryn Kellogg
You might already be familiar with the author of this book: in 2019, Kathryn Kellogg became famous for being able to fit two years’ worth of trash into one 16-oz mason jar. This woman is an expert at reducing waste, and in her book, you will discover ways you can be more sustainable in your own day-to-day life. Kellogg shares everything from DIY recipes to tips on how to be a responsible consumer. Our favorite quote from the book? “It’s not about perfection. It’s about making better choices.” We can all make a difference, and this book will tell you how.
3. Waste and Want: A Social History of Trash, by Susan Strasser
Have you ever found yourself wondering where all our trash comes from, or if its always been that way? If so, you might want to take a peek at this book. Strasser studies the history of trash through the lens of consumer culture, from the nineteenth century, when material goods were largely reused, to waste as it exists in the twenty-first century. We can’t wait to open this one up.
4. Live Green, by Jen Chillingsworth
“It’s important to remember that sustainability must be sustainable to you.” In this book, Chillingsworth guides her readers through 52 ideas for living a more eco-friendly life: one for each week of the year. Like Kellogg, she emphasizes starting with small steps that you can incorporate into your daily routine without overwhelming yourself. Pick this up if you want to learn more about sustainable cleaning routines, shopping guidance, gardening, and even holiday decorations. We hear the illustrations are beautiful to boot.
5. Compost City: Practical Composting Know-How for Small-Space Living, by Rebecca Louie
Composting has surged in popularity in recent years, and if you live in an apartment, condo, or even a house without a sizable yard, this humorous and informative book will guide you through it all. Louie understands that her readers come with different needs: some might be busy, some might only have room for a countertop bin, others might want to know how to partner with a friend or neighbor. Check this one out if you’ve been looking for similar advice. You’ll even find tips for those who live in more spacious areas.