"Grandma tells us that back when she
was a young mom, she threw things
away without thinking.
"Like everyone else here, I wanted
our family's waste to just disappear.
To be invisible."
People in Kamikatsu would drag their
trash to a great big hole in the ground."
What an inspiring story this book tells. It's the latest addition to the Green Power series by Allan Drummond. Look for this one and the following; energy island (2015), green city (2016), pedal power (2017), and solar story (2020) if you are interested in knowing about sustainability projects and what makes them successful. I guarantee you will find them both informative and inspiring. We can do something ... each and every one of us.
This book describes a small Japanese town that is well-known for its plan concerning recycling and its commitment to establishing a zero waste goal for its residents. Only by working together to recycle, reuse and reduce spending does it have a real impact on its citizens. As with his previous books, Mr. Drummond engages readers with a conversational tone that is uplifting and effective.
He introduces two children visiting their grandmother who has lived in Kamikatsu all her life. They love being with her, and learning from her. On their first day, Grandma is busy sorting through her trash for recycling day. They are told there are nine bins for different kinds of paper: cardboard, newspaper, magazine paper, shredded paper, paper cups, paper cartons with aluminum, milk cartons, card stock and "other paper". Wow! That begins their learning. Next are six bins for plastic waste, five bins for metal waste, six bins for glass, and other bins for old batteries, rubber, and fabric. Did I mention compost, things you no longer need, broken or other 'old' things? A collection truck visits the older citizens on recycling day and takes everything to the town's recycling depot.
"Zero Waste is Kamikatsu's big idea. And it's an idea that could change the world. The goal is to try to recycle everything. For more than twenty years now, Zero Waste has been the aim of everyone in town. And recently the whole world has taken notice."
Grandma explains how much has changed since she was a young mother, throwing many things away without thinking, and the trouble that caused for the small town she loved. It created significant health problems, the smell was terrible, and they had no collection service. When scientists ran tests, their reports were ghastly. It was time for the townspeople to make some changes. It was a rough road for three years, until the town promised that, by 2020, Kamikatsu would be the first Zero Waste Town in the world. Would other places follow their lead? It has resonated with many, and interest continues to grow. People visit to see for themselves, to learn more, and to enjoy the fresh air.
Back matter includes an author's note, photos, and a list for further reading. Bravo!
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