Vertedero

Oliver Franklin-Wallis's Wasteland takes readers on an investigative journey into the hidden world of what happens to the things we discard. This book delves into the secretive, multi-billion dollar industry of waste, revealing the systems and human stories behind our global consumption. Franklin-Wallis travels from the vast landfills of New Delhi, where waste pickers navigate mountains of refuse, to the depths of British sewers, confronting the origins of our oldest and newest waste crises. He explores the afterlife of our technology in Ghana and uncovers the truth behind second-hand donations that often clog African landfills. Through meticulous research and personal accounts, Wasteland exposes corporate greenwashing, the complexities of recycling, and the enduring legacy of nuclear waste. It connects our everyday habits to the larger climate crisis, highlighting the environmental and human costs of our throwaway culture. This exploration offers a detailed look at how waste management operates globally, from incineration to hazardous industrial waste, and introduces innovators working towards a cleaner future. The book challenges readers to confront the consequences of modern consumerism and consider the urgent need for a more sustainable approach to what we leave behind.