A Public Sociology of Waste

Individuals cannot tackle waste by recycling, reusing, and reducing alone. Myra J. Hird's book challenges the notion that individuals and households are responsible for the global waste crisis and reveals that neoliberal capitalism and industry collaboration are the real culprits. She offers insights into the relations between waste and societal issues and showcases how sociology can provide solutions through a 'pubic imagination of waste.'

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 158 pages
Publication date: 12 December 2023
Publisher: Bristol University Press

The notion that individuals and households alone can address the issue of waste through recycling, reusing, and reducing is a topic that this thought-provoking book delves into extensively. Sociologist and waste expert Myra J. Hird challenges the prevailing belief by exposing the fallacy of infinite growth propagated by neoliberal capitalism as the primary cause of our global waste crisis. Through her comprehensive analysis, Hird reveals how industry and local governments collaborate to divert attention away from the root causes of waste generation.

In this enlightening work, Hird offers valuable insights into the intricate connections between waste and broader societal issues such as ongoing settler colonialism, poverty, racism, and sexism. She demonstrates how sociology can play a crucial role in finding solutions by fostering a "public imagination of waste." By encouraging individuals to view waste as a resource rather than a burden, Hird proposes innovative approaches to waste management and recycling that prioritize sustainability and social justice.

Through her compelling storytelling and expert knowledge, Hird empowers readers to recognize the role they can play in reducing waste and creating a more sustainable future. This book serves as a wake-up call to individuals, communities, and governments to take responsibility for their waste management practices and work together to address the global waste crisis. By challenging the status quo and promoting a more holistic and equitable approach to waste management, Hird's work contributes to a more sustainable and just world.

Weight: 258g
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529206562