Plot summary, “The Big Necessity” by Rose George in 5 Minutes - Book Review
0"The Big Necessity: The Unmentionable World of Human Waste and Why It Matters" is a non-fiction book written by British journalist Rose George. It was first published in 2008 and explores the often overlooked, yet crucial, topic of human waste management and sanitation around the world.
In "The Big Necessity," Rose George takes readers on a global journey to shed light on the various aspects of human waste disposal, sanitation practices, and the profound impact they have on public health, the environment, and social justice. The book delves into the following key areas:
History of Sanitation: The book traces the history of human waste management from ancient times to the present, highlighting the evolution of sanitation practices and the cultural attitudes towards waste.
Global Sanitation Crisis: George presents a vivid portrayal of the dire sanitation conditions faced by millions of people worldwide, especially in developing countries. She discusses the consequences of inadequate sanitation, such as the spread of diseases like cholera, diarrhea, and other waterborne illnesses.
The Socioeconomic Impact: The book explores how lack of proper sanitation disproportionately affects vulnerable communities and contributes to a cycle of poverty. It addresses the challenges faced by women and girls who often have limited access to safe and private sanitation facilities.
Environmental Implications: George examines the environmental impact of poor sanitation, including the contamination of water sources and the release of greenhouse gases from poorly managed waste.
Innovative Solutions: The book also highlights some innovative solutions and projects aimed at improving sanitation and waste management globally. It explores initiatives to develop eco-friendly toilets and sustainable waste treatment methods.
"The Big Necessity" provides readers with a thought-provoking and eye-opening perspective on an often-neglected subject. It challenges preconceived notions about sanitation, waste, and the consequences of inadequate waste management systems.
Through her research and reporting, Rose George raises awareness about the urgency of addressing global sanitation issues and advocates for better policies, investments, and initiatives to improve public health and protect the environment. The book's engaging and accessible narrative style allows readers to comprehend the importance of this critical issue and its far-reaching implications.