The Story of Stuff: 1. Extraction, 2. Production, 3. Distribution
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| 4. Consumption |
"The Story Of Stuff
” gets you to think about how material things come into your life and where they go after they are tossed. We are asked to consider the hidden health, environmental and social impact of all the stuff we consume. The book is a very understandable and entertaining read. The tone is upbeat and ultimately hopeful, and it raises important concerns like resource depletion, toxic chemicals, worker safety and economic justice. It also discusses the roles big business, governments and people play in over-consumption. More stuff doesn't de facto produce greater happiness either.
” gets you to think about how material things come into your life and where they go after they are tossed. We are asked to consider the hidden health, environmental and social impact of all the stuff we consume. The book is a very understandable and entertaining read. The tone is upbeat and ultimately hopeful, and it raises important concerns like resource depletion, toxic chemicals, worker safety and economic justice. It also discusses the roles big business, governments and people play in over-consumption. More stuff doesn't de facto produce greater happiness either. |
| 5. Disposal |
The author believes we can make products better without destroying our health or our planet, and corporations can be both profitable and socially responsible. She asks us to be open to new ways of thinking.
Although some of her critics accuse her of misrepresenting scientific terms and data, the book is a worthwhile read. It's good to take stock of what's working and what's not … to question the status quo and to change the way we do things in order to make life better on a global scale.
There isn't a single solution to ecological problems, but her book correctly advocates sustainability and gets readers to focus on the big picture.
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Great! I attend a course dealing with Sustainability, so this book might come handy.
ReplyDeleteDearest Debbie,
ReplyDeleteGuess her critics are right on Annie Leonard not being an expert herself on several scientific issues.
She is right though that especially here in the USA, we create far too much waste.
Being raised in the Old World has never made us adhere to that, even though we're American Citizens but with a different upbringing. No paper plates or plastic cups in our household... No ready bought meals with lots of waste etc. etc.
As for recycling, we both have always given away things and clothes to the less fortunate and never ever tossed things in the trash. That would be a SIN.
Still here in Central Georgia it is a SHAME that the majority, or the City and County 'Leaders' still don't see the need for separating glass by color and paper and carton. We did it for a while and with the excuse for it not being 'profitable' they quit doing so...
Hugs,
Mariette
She doesn't claim to be a scientist, but her focus, awareness and information are true and a lot of it common sense. Perhaps her critics are more interested in profits than the planet. She doesn't come across as a critic herself, but stays fairly positive.
DeleteDebbie, she might not claim being a scientist but if you stick your neck out you can expect what you wrote above: 'Although some of her crictics accuse her of misrepresenting scientific terms and data...'
DeleteToo many people in this world are only interested in the profit making and thus they think purely short term; for themselves that is! Long term approach is the best in everything...
Hugs,
Mariette
I got the distinct impression she is thinking long term. Worried about overconsumption and depleting the Earth's natural resources and thinking about the entire life cycle of products once they are made, used and trashed. A point of hers is everybody -- consumers and businesses --need to have this mindfulness. It seems to be common sense, not that controversial. Thus our recycling and repurposing efforts. Also more people who try to live a Minimalist lifestyle. She, along with other like-minded activists, seem to be making a positive impact.
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