Article: Science-based solutions

Tuesday June 2, 2009

The Big Picture

Author: David Suzuki
Publisher: Greystone, 272 pages

WHETHER he's discussing how to reconcile economy with ecology, why a warmer world will result in more poison ivy, why Britney Spears gets more hits on Google than global warming, or why we might need to start eating jellyfish for supper, David Suzuki points the direction society must take in order to face environmental challenges ahead. Covering suburban sprawl, sustainable transportation, food shortages, biodiversity, technology, public policy and other issues, The Big Picture not only identifies the problems we face but proposes science-based solutions.

The Complete Idiot's Guide To Green Cleaning
Author: Mary Findley and Linda Formichelli
Publisher: Alpha C, 256 pages

BECOME a green cleaning machine naturally, with no chemicals. This guide takes readers room-by-room, teaching them how to clean thoroughly, efficiently, and in an environmentally sound way. New and expanded coverage includes information on making small changes that have a huge impact on cleaning difficult areas and greening personal care products. There are hints to clean quickly and efficiently. Only common ingredients are used, but there are also suggestions for alternatives.

Sneaky Green Uses For Everyday Things
Author: Cy Tymony
Publisher: Andrews McMeel, 160 pages

INGENUITY has met its match and his name is Cy Tymony. In this book, Cy combines the sneaky fun of his Sneaky Uses series with the growing interest in green living. The result is an easy-to-practice manual for conserving energy. The book includes 40 projects using green techniques with step-by-step instructions, as well as illustrations and directions for an earth-friendly existence. Projects are enjoyable for kids and also engaging for adults.

Growing Up Green!
Author: Deirdre Imus
Publisher: Simon & Schuster, 304 pages

THIS is a parent-friendly guide to raising a healthy child in our increasingly toxic environment. Environmental activist and children's advocate Deirdre Imus addresses specific issues faced by children in every age group – from infants to adolescents and beyond. With a focus on preventing rather than treating childhood illnesses, Deirdre concentrates on educating and empowering parents with information such as: how to make sure your child is vaccinated safely; which plastic bottles and toys are least toxic; how to lobby for safer school environments and support children's environmental health studies;and advice from leading "green" paediatricians.

Made With Care: Make It
Author: Jane Bull
Publisher: Dorling Kindersley, 64 pages

HELP your child turn trash into treasure with craft and activity expert Jane Bull. There's no need for fancy materials; just use the stuff we throw away every day, like plastic drink bottles, metal cans, magazines and even clothes. The crafty step-by-step projects will have your child turning humble household rubbish into amazing treasures you'll want to keep. Watch them create jewellery from paper, flower pots from plastic bottles and shoulder bags from old jeans. The book also includes facts on earth's natural resources and tips on recycling.

The Clean Tech Revolution
Author: Ron Pernick and Clint Wilder
Publisher: HarperCollins, 336 pages

THIS book identifies the major forces that have pushed clean tech from back-to-the-earth utopian dream to its current revolution among the inner circles of corporate boardrooms, on Wall Street trading floors, and in government offices around the globe. By highlighting eight major clean tech sectors – solar energy, wind power, biofuels and biomaterials, green buildings, personal transportation, the smart grid, mobile applications, and water filtration – they uncover how investors, entrepreneurs, and individuals can profit from this next wave of technological innovation.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Go Green Live Green 2 June 2009