The 2020-2021 edition of the Austin Environmental Directory, compiled by Paul Robbins with help from a number of other local environmentalists, presents not only a listing and description of Austin environmental organizations but a compendium of articles about the environment and our interactions with it. From the neurotoxin BPA found on many grocery receipts to the carcinogens found in many carpet materials, floor products, and kitchen and bathroom surfaces, the directory is a great guide for anyone contemplating home upgrades. Robbins told the Austin Monitor, “I really set out to create an urban survival manual. We’ve got all these toxins overwhelming us, in our food, in our water, in our clothing, in our building materials, etc. and I thought this could be the children’s issue where I could talk about how to avoid all these toxins. It’s relevant to everyone, but it’s particularly relevant to children.” Robbins spent three years putting this issue of the guide together. If you have ever wanted to reach out to the Austin Sierra Club, Texas Conservation Corps, Urban Patchwork outdoor learning environments, or groups dedicated to organic gardening, solar energy, health, parks or recycling, you’ll find a listing in the directory. Robbins is distributing 30,000 free copies of the book, which was financed by contributions and sales of ad space. On Tuesday, he delivered copies for the public to Half Price Books, the Wheatsville Food Co-ops and the Central Market on North Lamar. He has also updated the directory’s website.
This whisper has been changed to correct the number of copies available.