Westcountry books

SEVERAL Westcountry books sit around my summer desk which is located outdoors next to my al-fresco kitchen.

As well as Two’s Company, there’s Herb, A Cook’s Companion, by Mark Diacono; Marcus Bawden’s Skewered which recently won the Best BBQ Book in the World at the Gourmand International Cookbook Awards; and Charred, The complete guide to vegetarian grilling and BBQ, by Genevieve Taylor.

Now they’re joined by Go Toxic Free, written by Devon environment journalist Anna Turns. It’s a practical, in-depth, myth-busting guide revealing the impact of toxic chemicals commonly found in the home, with simple swaps and habits that can make a difference.

The thought-provoking and comprehensive book examines common household products, from their raw materials to disposal, allowing readers to reduce their “chemical footprint” on the planet, and improve our health.

Go Toxic Free is a vital guide to help us all make important changes to our lifestyles and consumption to help reduce the devastating impact of chemical pollution.

“Plastics are only part of the story – the invisible world of chemical pollutants in the soil, the air, our water systems and our own bodies is just as concerning when over 70% of chemicals used in the EU have been labelled hazardous for health or the environment,” says Anna.

From our kitchen cupboards to our bathroom cabinets and garden sheds, Anna reveals the harmful chemicals inside our homes and gives helpful tips on how to avoid them.

■ Go Toxic Free, by Anna Turns, is published by Michael O’Mara Books, at £14.99.