Totally Toxic

Earth's wetlands are crucially important land areas that can easily get overlooked when talking about bodies of water. Wetlands hold some of the most concentrated biodiversity of any ecosystem and act as a filter to help keep our water clean. This book explores the danger facing our wetlands, and what is at stake if we do not reverse the damage. The final spread gives readers the chance to conduct their own environmental investigation with guidelines on how to observe, monitor, and analyze the health of a wetland area. This volume introduces an important part of our ecosystem to the reader's attention and inspires scientists of all levels to take action.

Forests are the lungs of our planet, and it is essential that we keep the plant life healthy for Earth's well-being. Yet, it is no secret that our forests are in great danger. This book explores the science and politics behind exactly what is happening to the forests and why, along with the current and potential ramifications we may face in the future. The reader is confronted with staggering case studies and is challenged to think critically about the problems with how we are using this important resource. This book captures readers' attention with colorful pictures and edgy fact boxes, while raising awareness levels about this matter of ever-growing importance.

We need the fresh water found in rivers, lakes, and streams to survive, to drink, for sanitation, to help food grow, as power, and for recreation. How did our small supply of fresh water get so polluted? What are the biggest threats to the safety of our freshwater, and why? Complex biology, earth science, and chemistry are all presented to the reader in a way that is both age-appropriate and exciting. This book is an intersection between environmental science and environmental responsibility that empowers readers to learn more, think more, and do more.