Admittedly this book has been out from some time, nearly six years. But the ideas contained within still hold the same relevance today, perhaps even more so. It is co-written by William McDonough, an architect, and Michael Braungart, a chemist.

Cradle to Cradle examines the entire system of processes involved in creating the products that surround us. Beginning at the most basic level, analyzing raw materials. Looking into the creation of the object and on to it's actual use. Until the final stage where it is discarded. They research the entire life cycle.

What is most inspiring about this book are the anecdotes describing real world situations where the Cradle to Cradle mantra has already been applied successfully. My absolute favorite example was the textile factory that was in the habit of using synthetic materials because they were less expensive. New legislation was passed and they needed to add even more chemicals to offset the impact of their effluent waste water. They were shown that by switching to ecofriendly materials at the beginning, they would actually save money since they would be no longer producing any harmful by-products.

You can buy the book from Amazon here.