A compelling look at the global waste industry

eye-opening look at the global waste industryI sometimes struggle with non-fiction on audiobook, but the structure and content of Wasteland resonates whatever format you enjoy it on. Ostensibly a book about stuff, this book works because is also about people too. Each chapter feels like a self-contained story, which comes together to build the picture of our global waste crisis. In challenging us to think about what happens to the things we throw away, it reveals the stories of the people who interact with it, from waste disposal managers to people scouring tips on the other side of the world.
I have to admit, I've often been guilty of subscribing to an 'out of sight, out of mind' approach to waste, failing to give my rubbish a second thought after it's stuffed into my recycling bin. This eye-opening look at the global waste industry has forced me to think again. From household recycling in the UK to the flooded second-hand clothing market in Ghana, from London sewers to New Delhi landfills, each chapter shines a new light on the areas of waste that we often would rather not think about. It might not sound like the most light-hearted book - and it often makes for startling reading - but it manages to inform, engage and entertain throughout. An incredible read that you'll want all your friends and family to read immediately.

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everyone should be made to read or hear this

some uncomfortable issues but very much needs sharing. it's made a difference to my family

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well researched and insightful

a critical and balanced look at waste and recycling that for the most part confirms suspicions about recycling and waste but also a global view of waste as a business and what we could do

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A cause of reflection…

A well written, well researched book that will probably cause you to think about your own waste, industrial waste, and why governments can’t seem to think long term.

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Not to be missed!

If you have ever wondered which recycling bin you are supposed to be using or what happens to all our waste once it is out of sight, this is for you. There is hope, but also some confronting reality checks. Told with humour, humility and zero preachiness, this book has reinvigorated my will to do less "wish cycling", repair more and just buy less stuff.

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Outstanding

This is truly a stunning piece of work. I listened to every second in fascination. I’m not sure that I have ever learnt so much from an author due to the presentation of the information. His research and time taken to ensure that he has covered so many diverse aspects of the subject enhances the credibility and integrity of the work.
A privilege to have listened to. Beautifully read and presented.
A gem.
Ought to be used in schools and universities and sent to every company and organisation as a reference and educational resource.

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Informative and compelling read

This is such an interesting insight into the global waste industry. While a lot of it is extremely depressing about the world we live in and the injustice many face as a result of our consumption-based lifestyles, it is also extremely informative and compelling.

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A brilliant, frightening wake up call.

If you've ever wondered what happens to the contents of your bins once you've diligently put them out for the binmen, read or listen to this book.Insightful, well-researched, and humbly presented. It will open your eyes to the issue of waste - not just the stuff you throw out but also the waste created to make the products you are buying in the first place. If there is one book that will convince you to change your habits and at the very least think more about the subject, this is it. Read it. Read it again. Share it with others.

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Brilliant

From someone who works in the waste industry this is so on point and captivating

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very interesting, really makes you think

Not the most “hot” topic, but actually one of the most relevant books I’ve read recently. It introduces you to the myths and truth of recycling, textiles, incineration, nuclear waste. With stories from Ghana, Brazil, India, UK and more. Well-written and important.

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