Trash Revolution

When it comes to waste, everyone has the chance to reduce their carbon footprint, suggests Fyvie in her children’s debut. In a chart- and infographic-filled presentation, chapters focus on waste in the consumption of water, food, clothing, paper, plastic, metals, and electronics. Fyvie describes how clothing is produced, the implications of “fast fashion” trends and “slow decomposition,” and how readers can avoid contributing to wasteful producing, buying, and selling practices. Charts labeled “Supply & Demand” break down the reasons that people desire particular products, how they acquire them, and waste solutions. In the case of electronics, Fyvie urges readers to resist upgrading prematurely and instead keep electronics for longer, recycle batteries, and donate old models to charity. Sprinkled throughout are facts that may lead readers to think twice about their habits: “Scientists estimate that juice boxes will take 350 years to fully break down.” Slavin illustrates in lively pen-and-ink art, featuring cartoonlike characters implementing workable solutions to combat waste, which Fyvie encourages readers to embrace themselves. Ages 8–12. (Apr.)