The Suicidal Planet: How to Prevent Global Climate Catastrophe

Despite its off-putting title, this book presents a clear-eyed and well-documented overview of global warming, and an optimistic but practical plan for avoiding the worst of the damage. Drawing on scientific consensus, Hillman, Fawcett and Rajan describe the havoc global warming will likely wreak in 20 to 100 years if we do not act : a rise in infectious diseases and outbreaks of desert across the American plains and western Europe, as many as 150 million environmental refugees and possibly 95% species extinction. Their conclusion: to keep atmospheric carbon dioxide to a safe level, U.S. citizens will have to cut their carbon emissions by 80% by 2030. With governments and individuals in a "near-universal state of denial" on the topic, the authors propose what they consider the only realistic and fair solution. Each person on earth would be given an equal, tradable "carbon allowance" that would steadily shrink over time, they suggest, to keep atmospheric carbon dioxide in check to avert unacceptable climate change. Environmental activists may already be familiar with these ideas, but this comprehensive, concise and beautifully organized overview of an undeniably important issue make it a must-read for anyone even slightly concerned about our future on this planet. (Apr.)