Wealth of the World's Waste Places and Oceania

A geographical treatise written in the early 20th century. The text explores the idea that regions deemed ''waste'' or crucial to the well-being of human civilization. The author delves into various locations around the globe, highlighting their unique contributions to the economy and ecology, thereby challenging the notion of wastefulness in nature. The opening of the work introduces the concept that what might appear to be unproductive or barren land is, in fact, essential for the balance of life on Earth. Gilson discusses how regions such as deserts and polar areas serve significant ecological functions, contributing resources like fresh water and essential minerals that support other, more fertile lands. He argues that while some areas may not yield direct agricultural benefits, their geological and climatic features play vital roles in the global ecosystem. This profound exploration sets the stage for a detailed examination of specific ''waste places'' in subsequent chapters, revealing their potential and intricacies that have often been overlooked.