The Way We Live
...and how our choices impact our environment
Thousands of materials about natural resources and waste are available on the web. Below, we’ve shared links to Iowa websites, and picked out some of our favorite national websites as well.
The DNR helps Iowa citizens, businesses and communities create a cleaner environment and stronger economy through the sustainable use of natural resources. The DNR is the state's core agency for assisting Iowa businesses and residences with waste management goals, while regulating Iowa's solid waste facilities.
The IRA is a network of diverse members dedicated to advancing cost-effective and sustainable waste reduction and recycling activities to help improve the quality of life within Iowa communities.
ISOSWO is a statewide organization whose members are directly involved in solid waste management issues.
There are approximately 70 municipal solid waste landfills and transfer stations in the state, managing waste for residents of Iowa. This link provides a list of these organizations and contact information. Field trip opportunities are readily available at most landfills and recycling centers.
The RRTTC is an interdisciplinary research, education and outreach center serving Regents researchers and students, Iowa citizens, business and industry. Over 165 RRTTC publications and research reports are available.
This organization is a leader in rethinking consumption in America. They have a load of great resources for most ages.
This website contains information on municipal solid waste (MSW), including facts, information about reducing, reusing and recycling, and state data about MSW.
The EPA Region 10 Materials Management through Sustainable Consumption Webinar Series is an excellent resource for background information on sustainable patterns of consumption and the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Webinars are also good for 9-12 and adult audiences.
For nearly forty years, Population Connection (formerly Zero Population Growth) has been educating young people with its award-winning Population Education program and advocating for progressive action to stabilize world population at a level that can be sustained by Earth's resources.
This website has a wealth of information about different countries' ecological footprints.