BR2-12: The Stinking Story of RUBBISH

It smells horrible and looks disgusting, but rubbish hasn't always been a problem. Some of it can even be useful. Squelch through its intriguing story, past ancient animal droppings, stinking sewers and dirty nappies. Just remember to hold your nose along the way.

     This story is about rubbish on earth. Long long ago, there was no rubbish on Earth. There were no living things either. Gradually, plants and animals developed and created their own natural waste. Then came humans. To begin with, their waste was harmless too. The first humans were always on the move, hunting animals and gathering berries. All they left behind them were ash, poo, bones and rotten fruit. Over time, humans thought up new objects for everyday life. Every item was treasured and looked after. Only once it was beyond repair would someone finally throw it away. Around a thousand years ago, small towns were appearing all over Europe. Lots of people in one place meant lots of rubbish too. Soon, food and toilet waste piled up in the streets, smelling awful and attracting rats and diseases. What did people do to improve the conditions?

Daynes, K. (2006). The Stinking Story of RUBBISH. Usborne Young Reading.
(193 words)