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Table of Contents
Background and Overview
Teaching Strategies
P2 Instructional Materials
Reference Library
Where To Go for Help
Acknowledgements
Complete List of Links

The Consumer's Handbook for Reducing Solid Waste
WASTE MANAGEMENT: Factual information on why and how to reduce solid waste, divided into six subject...
details

Youth Education - Reference Library Links

These resources give more detailed information about the concepts presented in this section. There are 84 links in this section.

Sorted by Resource Type

Article/report: 2
Fact sheet/checklist: 63
List: 1
Manual/handbook/curriculum: 3
Periodical: 1
Software/electronic tool: 1
Web site: 13

Sort Alphabetically by Title Instead

NOTE: [PDF] links require the Acrobat Reader from Adobe.



Article/report

Fun Energy Facts
Abstract: ENERGY CONSERVATION: Facts related to renewable and non-renewable sources of energy, how energy is used, the science of energy and saving energy.
Source: Energy Information Administration
URL: http://www.eia.doe.gov/kids/energyfacts/index.html

Tips for a Waste-Less School Year
Abstract: WASTE MANAGEMENT: List of different ideas to prevent the creation of waste related to school supplies, lunches, and transportation.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/osw/specials/funfacts/school.htm



Fact sheet/checklist

Animal Waste
Abstract: AGRICULTURE/WATER QUALITY: On-line U.S. map links by state to animal waste information and to additional information about animal waste and non-point source pollution.
Source: Environmental Defense
URL: http://www.scorecard.org/env-releases/aw/

BioDiesel for Kids [PDF]
Abstract: ENERGY CONSUMPTION: Definition and description of what biodiesel is and how it is beneficial.
Source: BioDiesel
URL: http://www.biodiesel.org/pdf_files/kids_sheet.pdf

Cleaning Products
Abstract: WASTE MANAGEMENT: Learn more about cleaning products, and where to buy or how to make simple, non-toxic, biodegradable household cleaners.
Source: Worldwatch Institute
URL: http://www.worldwatch.org/pubs/goodstuff/cleaningproducts/

Compost Critters
Abstract: AGRICULTURE/WASTE MANAGEMENT: Learn about the wide variety of organisms found naturally in organic matter that also break it down into compost.
Source: Reduce.org
URL: http://www.moea.state.mn.us/campaign/compost/index.html#biolog
y


Composting
Abstract: AGRICULTURE/WASTE MANAGEMENT:Describes the what, how and why of composting, including benefits and descriptions of various methods as well as linking to more info.
Source: Kansas Department of Health and Environment
URL: http://www.kansasdontspoilit.com/main_pg7.html

Conserving Water in the Kitchen [PDF]
Abstract: CONSUMER EDUCATION/WASTE MANAGEMENT: Tips and suggestions for utilizing water more efficiently for cooking, washing and drinking.
Source: CSU
URL: http://www.montana.edu/wwwp2er/pdf/waterconservation.pdf

Consumer Choices
Abstract: CONSUMER EDUCATION: How and why to shop for products and services that protect northern rockies landscapes and rural communitites. See the "Some Questions to Ask While You're Shopping" section near the bottom of the page.
Source: Corporation for the Northern Rockies
URL: http://www.northrock.org/consumer.html

Dos and Don’ts Around the Home
Abstract: WASTE MANAGEMENT/WATER QUALITY: Ways to prevent nonpoint source pollution and water pollution in the home relating to household chemicals, landscaping and gardening, septic systems and water conservation.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.epa.gov/OWOW/NPS/dosdont.html

Easy Ways to Conserve Water
Abstract: WATER QUALITY: Brief list of common leaks to check in order to use water more efficiently in the home.
Source: The Groundwater Foundation
URL: http://www.groundwater.org/kc/kidsconserve.html

Eco Friendly Alternatives to Commercial Cleaners and Other Household Products
Abstract: WASTE MANAGEMENT: Why alternative cleaners are a good choice and sample recipes for various chores.
Source: EMS
URL: http://www.ems.org/household_cleaners/alternatives.html

Energy
Abstract: ENERGY CONSERVATION:Definition of energy with links to different types of energy production and conservation.
Source: Environmental Literacy Council
URL: http://www.enviroliteracy.org/category.php/4.html

Energy and How We Use It
Abstract: ENERGY CONSERVATION: Describes what energy is, where it comes from and how is it used.
Source: Rocky Mountain Inst.
URL: http://www.rmi.org/sitepages/pid479.php

Greenhouse Effect
Abstract: AIR QUALITY: Definition of greenhouse effect including information on planet warming and greenhouse gases and great visuals.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.epa.gov/globalwarming/kids/greenhouse.html

Hazardous Substances and Hazardous Waste
Abstract: WASTE MANAGEMENT: All about hazardous waste including what it is, where it goes and how it can affect us.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.epa.gov/superfund/students/clas_act/haz-ed/ff_01.ht
m


Household Hazardous Waste
Abstract: CONSUMER EDUCATION/WASTE MANAGEMENT: Description of household hazardous waste (HHW) and options for products, such as paints, cleaners, oils, batteries, and pesticides, that contain potentially hazardous ingredients and require special care when you dispose of them.
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
URL: http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/non-hw/muncpl/hhw.htm

How Batteries Work
Abstract: ENERGY CONSERVATION/WASTE MANAGEMENT: Describes parts of batteries and how they work.
Source: Batteries Plus
URL: http://www.batteriesplus.com/howwork.html

How Do We Measure the Quality of Our Waters
Abstract: WATER QUALITY: How scientists measure water quality, including the physical and chemical conditions of the water and the health of it's aquatic living organisms.
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
URL: http://www.epa.gov/owow/monitoring/nationswaters/measure.html

How Hydropower Works
Abstract: ENERGY CONSERVATION: How hydropower plants work to create energy including advantages and disadvantages.
Source: Department of Energy
URL: http://hydropower.inel.gov/hydrofacts/how-hydro-works.shtml

How to Buy Sustainable Products
Abstract: CONSUMER EDUCATION: A list of questions to keep in mind and ask yourself when choosing products.
Source: World Wise
URL: http://www.worldwise.com/buysusprod.html

How to Grow a Healthy, No-Waste Garden
Abstract: AGRICULTURE/WASTE MANGEMENT: How to utilize your garden to lower your household waste plus greener alternatives for yard maintenance.
Source: Reduce.org
URL: http://www.moea.state.mn.us/campaign/garden/index.html

Indoor Air Hazards
Abstract: AIR QUALITY: Listing of common indoor air pollutants including lead, radon, asbestos, particulates, CO2, smoke, formaldehyde, remodeling hazards, moisture and biologicals, with links to more information on each one.
Source: Healthy Indoor Air America's Homes
URL: http://www.montana.edu/wwwcxair/hazards.htm

Lets Learn to Precycle
Abstract: CONSUMER EDUCATION: Definition of precycling and list of ways to prevent the creation of waste.
Source: PlanetPals.com
URL: http://www.planetpals.com/precycle.html

Managing Non-Point Source Pollution from Agriculture
Abstract: AGRICULTURE/WATER QUALITY: Describes water quality impacts from agricultural sources.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.epa.gov/OWOW/NPS/facts/point6.htm

Managing Non-Point Source Pollution from Households
Abstract: WASTE MANAGEMENT/WATER QUALITY: Describes water quality impacts and water pollution from household sources.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.epa.gov/OWOW/NPS/facts/point10.htm

MSW Disposal: Landfills
Abstract: CONSUMER EDUCATION/WASTE MANAGEMENT: Offers information on the design and operation of landfills and offers alternatives to using landfills for waste.
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
URL: http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/non-hw/muncpl/disposal.htm

Municipal Solid Waste
Abstract: WASTE MANAGEMENT: Description of preferred order for waste disposal and information on its implementation, including alternatives and alternative combinations for disposing of community waste.
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
URL: http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/non-hw/muncpl/index.htm

Natives are Nice
Abstract: AGRICULTURE: Definition of and information on native plants and how they help the environment. Also links to activities.
Source: Montana Education Telecommunications Network
URL: http://www.metnet.state.mt.us/Special/Natives%20Are%20Nice/HTM
/index.html


Non-Point Source Pollution
Abstract: AGRICULTURE/WASTE MANAGEMENT/WATER QUALITY: Describes what nonpoint source pollution (NPS) is and why it is the nation's largest water quality problem.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.epa.gov/OWOW/NPS/facts/point1.htm

Pack a No-Waste Lunch
Abstract: CONSUMER EDUCATION: Ways to reduce waste by how you pack your lunch, what you pack it with, and what you purchase to eat.
Source: Reduce.org
URL: http://www.moea.state.mn.us/campaign/school/index.html#lunch

Pesticides Reduction [PDF]
Abstract: AGRICULTURE/WASTE MANAGEMENT: Common pesticides, their uses, and why reducing our usage of them is important, including alternatives.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.epa.gov/reg5rcra/wptdiv/p2pages/pestici.pdf

Pollution-Free Electricity [PDF]
Abstract: ENERGY CONSERVATION: Description of how a renewable hydrogen-powered fuel cell works.
Source: Minnesota Office for Environmental Assistance
URL: http://www.moea.state.mn.us/berc/dfe-energy.pdf

Questions and Answers About Septic Systems Additives
Abstract: CONSUMER EDUCATION/WASTE MANAGEMENT: Ways to maintain the operation of your septic system in a question and answer format related to septic system additives.
Source: Montana Extension Pollution Prevention Program
URL: http://www.montana.edu/wwwated/septic.htm

Recycling
Abstract: WASTE MANAGEMENT: In-depth description of recycling and how to utilize it most efficiently.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/non-hw/muncpl/recycle.htm

Reduce the Hail of Unwanted Mail
Abstract: CONSUMER EDUCATION/WASTE MANAGEMENT: Steps to reduce the amount of junk mail you receive.
Source: Reduce.org
URL: http://www.moea.state.mn.us/campaign/junkmail/index.html

Reduce Trash When You Shop
Abstract: CONSUMER EDUCATION: What to think about when you are shopping so you create less waste.
Source: Reduce.org
URL: http://www.moea.state.mn.us/campaign/shopping/index.html

Reducing Waste at Home
Abstract: CONSUMER EDUCATION/WASTE MANAGEMENT: How to reduce the amount of waste your household produces including paper, packaging, cleaning products, paints and pesticides.
Source: Reduce.org
URL: http://www.moea.state.mn.us/campaign/home/index.html

Silent Invaders [PDF]
Abstract: AGRICULTURE: Information on alien plant species or invasive weeds including why and how they create problems.
Source: BLM
URL: http://www.blm.gov/education/00_kids/wild12.pdf

Sources of Groundwater Contamination
Abstract: WATER QUALITY: Ways that groundwater can get contaminated, including how and with what. Includes excellent graphic.
Source: The Groundwater Foundation
URL: http://www.groundwater.org/gi/sourcesofgwcontam.html

Sun 4 Schools
Abstract: ENERGY CONSERVATION: Information on and how to get involved in a solar power project promoting use of photovoltaic systems in schools. Demonstrates the benefits of solar energy within a unique educational opportunity for students and their communities.
Source: Montana GreenPower
URL: http://www.montanagreenpower.org/solar/schools/sun4schools.htm
l#Introduction


Taking Action for Climate Change [PDF]
Abstract: AIR QUALITY/CONSUMER EDUCATION: A listing of 31 actions and choices to prevent pollution and related climate changes.
Source: World Wildlife Federation
URL: http://www.biodiversity911.org/climate_change/pdfs/climate_act
ions.pdf


Taking Action for Toxics [PDF]
Abstract: WASTE MANAGEMENT: Options to reduce use of toxics, a listing of 22 actions and choices.
Source: World Wildlife Federation
URL: http://www.biodiversity911.org/toxics/pdfs/toxics_actions.pdf

Ten Simple Steps to Improving Air Quality
Abstract: AIR QUALITY/TRANSPORTATION: Ten things a person can do to prevent air pollution and/or help air quality.
Source: It All Adds Up
URL: http://www.italladdsup.gov/drivers/10steps.asp

Ten Things You Can Do to Stop Wasting Energy
Abstract: CONSUMER EDUCATION/ENERGY CONSERVATION: List of ways to save energy in the home.
Source: Watts New
URL: http://www.wattsnew.com/wattsnew3/monster10/monstposter-GIF.ht
ml


The Big Three Pollutants
Abstract: AGRICULTURE/WATER QUALITY: Description of how dirt, bacteria and nutrients impact water quality.
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
URL: http://www.epa.gov/owow/monitoring/nationswaters/bigpollutants
.html


The Killer in Your Yard
Abstract: CONSUMER EDUCATION/WASTE MANAGEMENT: Describes household usage of pesticides, gives information on specific ones, and offers alternatives to pesticides in your yard.
Source: Audubon
URL: http://magazine.audubon.org/backyard/backyard0005.html

Vermicomposting
Abstract: AGRICULGURE/WASTE MANAGEMENT: Links to information on worms and composting with worms (i.e. vermicomposting).
Source: The Compost Resource Page
URL: http://www.oldgrowth.org/compost/vermi.html

Waste Management
Abstract: WASTE MANAGEMENT: Describes the science and systems of waste management, and how a landfill works.
Source: Kansas Department of Health and Environment
URL: http://www.kansasdontspoilit.com/main_pg11.html

Water Myths and Realities [PDF]
Abstract: WATER QUALITY: Common myths about water dispelled with concrete factual information.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.epa.gov/OGWDW/kids/myths.pdf

Water Pollution Prevention and Conservation [PDF]
Abstract: CONSUMER EDUCATION/WATER QUALITY: Ways and amounts of water used, and ways to prevent pollution.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.epa.gov/reg5rcra/wptdiv/p2pages/water.pdf

Water: How is it Used?
Abstract: WATER QUALITY: Ways we utilize water in both plant and animal systems, and in households and communities.
Source: Rocky Mountain Inst.
URL: http://www.rmi.org/sitepages/pid553.php

Water: What is it?
Abstract: WATER QUALITY: Description of what water is on earth including molecular structure, statistics of earth's water supply, and information on the water cycle.
Source: Rocky Mountain Inst.
URL: http://www.rmi.org/sitepages/pid552.php

What is a Biopesticide?
Abstract: AGRICULTURE/WASTE MANAGEMENT: Definition and advantages of pesticides derived from natural materials.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.epa.gov/oppbppd1/biopesticides/whatarebiopesticides
.htm


What is a Pesticide?
Abstract: AGRICULTURE: Great definitions and examples of pesticides.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/kids/hometour/pest.htm

What is a Pesticide?
Abstract: AGRICULTURE/WASTE MANAGEMENT: Definition and description of pesticides with examples.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/about/

What is an Alternative Fuel?
Abstract: AGRICULTURE/ENERGY CONSERVATION/TRANSPORTATION: Describes ethanol and its benefits as an alternative fuel.
Source: Alternative Fuels Data Center
URL: http://www.eere.energy.gov/afdc/altfuel/altfuels.html

What is Groundwater
Abstract: WATER QUALITY: Definition of groundwater and why it is important.
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
URL: http://www.epa.gov/owow/monitoring/nationswaters/groundwater.h
tml


What is Sustainable Development?
Abstract: AG/AIR/ENERGY/WASTE/WATER: Information describing components of sustainable development.
Source: The World Bank Group
URL: http://www.worldbank.org/depweb/english/sd.html

What is Vermicomposting
Abstract: AGRICULTURE/WASTE MANAGEMENT: Defines vermicomposting (using worms) and describes how to do it.
Source: Worm Woman
URL: http://www.wormwoman.com/acatalog/vermicomposting.html

What Kids Need to Know About Mercury [PDF]
Abstract: WASTE MANAGEMENT: The what, where and why's of mercury as a toxic substance.
Source: NIH
URL: http://www.nih.gov/od/ors/ds/nomercury/kidsflyer.pdf

What You Can Do to Prevent Non-Point Source Pollution
Abstract: AGRICULTURE/WASTE MANAGEMENT/WATER QUALITY: Listing of proactive choices to prevent water pollution in urban and agricultural areas.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.epa.gov/OWOW/NPS/whatudo.html

Where are these Pollutants Coming From
Abstract: WATER QUALITY: Where water pollution really comes from including description of polluted runoff and factors that affect it.
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
URL: http://www.epa.gov/owow/monitoring/nationswaters/where.html

Why Should We Use Water Efficiently
Abstract: WATER QUALITY: Ways and reasons to save water.
Source: Rocky Mountain Inst.
URL: http://www.rmi.org/sitepages/pid554.php

Youth Environmental News Desk
Abstract: ACTIVITY: Upper Elementary and Middle School: WASTE MANAGEMENT: News reports on successful environmental endeavors written by people up to the age of 19 that are published and distributed worldwide. Send yours.
Source: Horizon Solutions
URL: http://www.solutions-site.org/kids/youthdesk.htm



List

Just About the Sun and Solar Energy
Abstract: ENERGY CONSUMPTION: A listing of links to information on the sun and solar energy, and to related activites.
Source: Sue Lebeau
URL: http://www.suelebeau.com/sun.htm



Manual/handbook/curriculum

Backyard Magic
Abstract: WASTE MANAGEMENT: On-line composting handbook.
Source: New Brunswick Dept. of the Environment
URL: http://www.gnb.ca/elg-egl/0372/0003/0001-e.html

Environmental Education Materials: Guidelines for Excellence
Abstract: Provides a set of recommendations for evaluating and selecting environmental education materials. Guidelines can also help educators develop activity guides, lesson plans, and other instructional materials.
Source: NAAEE
URL: http://naaee.org/npeee/materials.php

What You and Your Community Can do to Protect and Conserve Groundwater
Abstract: AGRICULTURE/WATER QUALITY: Contains examples of things that you can do to safeguard our valuable ground water resources in the home, community, on the farm, and in businesses.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.epa.gov/seahome/groundwater/src/you.htm



Periodical

Trash Talk for Kids
Abstract: WASTE MANAGEMENT: Archive of newsletters written for fourth graders.
Source: KDHE
URL: http://www.kdhe.state.ks.us/waste/trash_talk/index.html



Software/electronic tool

H2ouse
Abstract: WATER QUALITY: Take the tour to investigate your water saving opportunities in each area of your home. Click on each location to show you both the facts and specific advice.
Source: California Urban Water Conservation Council
URL: http://www.h2ouse.net/



Web site

Dr. Art's Guide to Planet Earth
Abstract: CONSUMER EDUCATION: A book that provides a simple yet powerful way to understand how our planet works. Promotes individual empowerment related to environmental issues. Includes some on-line chapters.
Source: Dr. Art
URL: http://www.planetguide.net/

EcoHealth 101
Abstract: Rooted in serious science, this site taps the latest global environmental research to keep the content up-to-date and accurate. It was developed as a tool for teachers and students, and offers photos, diagrams, maps, video clips, lesson plans, in coverage of complex, environmental topics.
Source: John Hopkins University
URL: http://www.ecohealth101.org/

Fuel Economy
Abstract: ENERGY/TRANSPORTATION: Find and compare cars for their fuel economy. Also gas mileage tips, fuel economy guide, and information on fuel cell, alternative fuel, and hybrid vehicles.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.fueleconomy.gov/

Green Dream Jobs
Abstract: INDUSTRY & TRADE: Listing of environmental jobs with environmentally responsible employers.
Source: SustainableBusiness.com
URL: http://www.sustainablebusiness.com/jobs/index.cfm

GreenBiz Jobs
Abstract: INDUSTRY & TRADE: Listing of jobs that help keep our world "green."
Source: GreenBiz.com
URL: http://www.greenbiz.com/jobs/

GreenCars.Com
Abstract: TRANSPORTATION: Listing of greenest and meanest cars of 2003 with information on how to select a vehicle that does the least harm to the planet while meeting transportation needs.
Source: GreenCar.com
URL: http://www.greenercars.com/bestof.html

High School Environmental Center
Abstract: AIR QUALITY/WASTE MANAGEMENT/WATER QUALITY: Connects to resources on Air, Waste/Recycling, and Water issues.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.epa.gov/highschool/

Kids Gardening
Abstract: AGRICULTURE: The National Gardening Association links to classroom stories, articles, web sites, and other resources to help students investigate garden ecosystems and sustainable growing practices. This includes exploring the living and nonliving parts of soil, decomposers' abilities to turn once-living materials into a rich nutrient source, and "benign" pest- and weed-control strategies.
Source: National Gardening Association
URL: http://www.kidsgardening.com/

Pollutants and Programs
Abstract: AIR QUALITY/TRANSPORTATION: Provides links to information on air pollutants and greenhouse gases from transportation and other mobile sources.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.epa.gov/otaq/transport.htm

Terms of Environment
Abstract: ASK AN EXPERT: On-line thesaurus: Defines in non-technical language the more commonly used environmental terms appearing in EPA publications, news releases, and other Agency documents.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.epa.gov/OCEPAterms/

The Consumer's Handbook for Reducing Solid Waste
Abstract: WASTE MANAGEMENT: Factual information on why and how to reduce solid waste, divided into six subject areas: the problem, what is source reduction and how it works, basic principles, tips, and conclusion.
Source: EPA
URL: http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/non-hw/reduce/catbook/index.htm

Tox Town
Abstract: WASTE MANAGEMENT: An interactive guide to commonly encountered toxic substances.
Source: National Library of Medicine
URL: http://toxtown.nlm.nih.gov/

Travel Matters
Abstract: TRANSPORTATION/AIR QUALITY: Describes how travel habits and transportation choices affect global climate change. Offers a trio of resources - interactive emissions calculators, on-line emissions maps, and a wealth of educational content - to emphasize the close relationship between more efficient transit systems and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Source: Center for Neighborhood Technology
URL: http://www.travelmatters.org/

Peaks to Prairies is a member of the Pollution Prevention Resource Exchange, a national network of regional information centers: NEWMOA (Northeast), WRRC (Southeast), GLRPPR (Great Lakes), ZeroWasteNet (Southwest), P2RIC (Plains), Peaks to Prairies (Mountain), WRPPN (Pacific Southwest), PPRC (Northwest).