A text focuses on various ways that children can reduce waste and lower their carbon footprint--for example, using less heating and cooling technology, choosing eco-friendly transportation options, mending clothing, and growing food. The suggestions are common sense and concisely explained. Unfortunately, there is little information about the role of major corporations in creating the vast majority of carbon output and waste in the world. Age-appropriate information on lobbying and collective action is only slightly touched on when the author writes, "living sustainably can also include getting involved. Join or start an eco club at your school. Check for green events in your town. Volunteer with a group that promotes sustainability"). This is a classic lower elementary level informational text with a glossary, "read more" section, and index.

This would be an appropriate text for students to use for early research projects, such as the creation of informational posts or "how-to" books. VERDICT A worthwhile purchase for lower elementary libraries that use informational texts for research.