Waste has traditionally been considered a sow's ear; here Pringle shows how it can be a silk purse, too. Our knowledge of human culture has been enriched by the study of garbage, whether from ancient Native American sites or modern Tucson; the author notes several recent discoveries and conclusions. He goes on to discuss dump and landfill management, some of the innovative ways waste is used (ski slopes) and reclaimed (methane generation, metal recycling, etc.), and the wildlife that frequents waste-disposal areas. As usual, Pringle's presentation is lucid and lively, the research relevant and up-to-date. Photographs not seen.