Technology & Science
The Hidden Life of Trees
Peter Wohlleben
Delve into the fascinating world of trees and uncover their hidden social lives. Discover how trees communicate, form friendships, and support each other in a complex and interconnected ecosystem. A captivating exploration of the forest, revealing the wonders of nature and the importance of preserving our woodlands.
The Secret World of Weather
Tristan Gooley
An exploration of weather signs found in nature, focusing on microclimates and local observations to understand present, past, and future weather patterns. It encourages readers to look beyond conventional weather forecasts and connect with the weather through their senses and surroundings.
The Nutmeg’s Curse
Amitav Ghosh
Amitav Ghosh's *The Nutmeg's Curse* profoundly connects the 17th-century colonial exploitation of the Banda Islands for nutmeg to the contemporary global climate crisis. Through a rich tapestry of history, mythology, and philosophy, Ghosh argues that the violent subjugation of nature and indigenous peoples during the age of empire laid the foundational mindset for today's ecological collapse. This powerful and urgent work challenges readers to rethink humanity's relationship with the Earth and confront the deep historical roots of our planetary predicament.
Speed and Scale
John Doerr
From legendary venture capitalist John Doerr, this book presents a comprehensive and actionable plan, 'Speed & Scale,' to tackle the urgent climate crisis and achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Drawing on insights from global leaders and his experience backing disruptive companies, Doerr outlines ten key objectives—including electrifying transportation, decarbonizing the grid, and protecting nature—and four accelerants to drive rapid, large-scale change. It's a powerful call to action, emphasizing execution, accountability, and innovation, designed to inspire leaders across all sectors to unite in the fight for our planet's future.
World of Wonders
Aimee Nezhukumatathil
A lyrical collection of essays that celebrates the natural world's marvels, from the humble catalpa tree to the elusive whale shark. Through vivid observations of various creatures and plants, author Aimee Nezhukumatathil weaves in poignant personal anecdotes about her childhood, family, and experiences as a woman of color, exploring themes of wonder, belonging, and identity. This book invites readers to find astonishment in the everyday and reflect on their own place in the world.
Climate Future
Robert S. Pindyck
Economist Robert S. Pindyck challenges the prevailing focus on emission reductions in climate change policy, arguing that a significant global temperature increase is likely inevitable due to political and economic realities. This book makes a compelling case for prioritizing adaptation strategies—from geoengineering and sea walls to new agricultural methods—as crucial 'insurance' against potentially catastrophic climate outcomes. It delves into the profound uncertainties surrounding climate change impacts and offers a realistic, policy-oriented perspective on how humanity can prepare for a warming world.
The Terraformers
Annalee Newitz
In a distant future, Destry, an Environmental Rescue Team ranger, dedicates her life to terraforming the planet Sask-E and nurturing its delicate ecosystems. But when she uncovers a hidden city and a corporate conspiracy, she's forced to question everything she believes about her mission and the future of her world. This thought-provoking science fiction novel explores themes of environmental stewardship, corporate control, and the true meaning of humanity on a newly forged planet.
Kings of Their Own Ocean
Karen Pinchin
Karen Pinchin dives into the epic, centuries-long saga of the Atlantic bluefin tuna, a magnificent apex predator caught between human obsession and the brink of extinction. Through the interwoven stories of a passionate fisherman, pioneering scientists, and the global forces of industry and conservation, Pinchin uncovers the complex history of our relationship with this iconic species. From ancient fishing practices to the modern sushi trade, 'Kings of Their Own Ocean' is a gripping narrative that explores the science, economics, and politics behind the fight to save one of the ocean's most valuable and vulnerable creatures, revealing how human choices shape the fate of our planet's living systems.