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20 best books on climate – 2023 reading list & recommendations

November 21, 2023 by Joahn

Are you eager to dive into the world of climate change and its impact on our planet? Look no further! We have curated a list of the 20 best books about climate that will educate, inspire, and challenge you to think about the pressing environmental issues we face today. From scientific analyses to personal narratives, these climate books offer a wide range of perspectives and insights. Whether you are a climate enthusiast or just curious to learn more, these books are a must-read for anyone concerned about the future of our planet.


Contents

  • 1 The Uninhabitable Earth: Life After Warming
  • 2 The Future We Choose: Surviving the Climate Crisis
  • 3 The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History
  • 4 The Water Will Come: Rising Seas, Sinking Cities, and the Remaking of the Civilized World
  • 5 The Great Derangement: Climate Change and the Unthinkable
  • 6 The Madhouse Effect: How Climate Change Denial Is Threatening Our Planet, Destroying Our Politics, and Driving Us Crazy
  • 7 The Weather of the Future: Heat Waves, Extreme Storms, and Other Scenes from a Climate-Changed Planet
  • 8 The Carbon Farming Solution: A Global Toolkit of Perennial Crops and Regenerative Agriculture Practices for Climate Change Mitigation and Food Security
  • 9 The Climate Casino: Risk, Uncertainty, and Economics for a Warming World
  • 10 The Ends of the World: Volcanic Apocalypses, Lethal Oceans, and Our Quest to Understand Earth’s Past Mass Extinctions
  • 11 The Great Transition: Shifting from Fossil Fuels to Solar and Wind Energy
  • 12 The Fate of Food: What We’ll Eat in a Bigger, Hotter, Smarter World
  • 13 The Burning Question: We Can’t Burn Half the World’s Oil, Coal, and Gas. So How Do We Quit?
  • 14 The Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate—Discoveries from a Secret World
  • 15 The Big Thirst: The Secret Life and Turbulent Future of Water
  • 16 The Weather Makers: How Man Is Changing the Climate and What It Means for Life on Earth
  • 17 The Human Age: The World Shaped by Us
  • 18 The Sixth Extinction: Patterns of Life and the Future of Humankind
  • 19 The Great Disruption: Why the Climate Crisis Will Bring On the End of Shopping and the Birth of a New World
  • 20 The Revenge of Gaia: Earth’s Climate Crisis and the Fate of Humanity
  • 21 Conclusion

best books about climate The Uninhabitable Earth: Life After Warming

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The Uninhabitable Earth: Life After Warming

by David Wallace-Wells

The Uninhabitable Earth: Life After Warming by David Wallace-Wells is a groundbreaking book on climate that presents a chilling and urgent portrait of our planet’s future. Wallace-Wells explores the dire consequences of global warming and offers a comprehensive analysis of the climate crisis we currently face. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, he unveils a world where rising temperatures lead to extreme weather events, mass extinctions, and widespread human suffering. This powerful book about climate serves as a wake-up call, urging us to confront the harsh realities of our actions and take immediate action to mitigate the devastating effects of climate change. The Uninhabitable Earth is a must-read for anyone concerned about the future of our planet.

best books about climate The Future We Choose: Surviving the Climate Crisis

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The Future We Choose: Surviving the Climate Crisis

by Christiana Figueres and Tom Rivett-Carnac

The Future We Choose: Surviving the Climate Crisis is an inspiring and thought-provoking book about the urgent need for collective action to address the existential threat of our time: the climate crisis. Written by Christiana Figueres and Tom Rivett-Carnac, two key architects of the historic Paris Agreement, this book on climate presents a compelling vision for a sustainable and resilient future. Figueres and Rivett-Carnac share their firsthand experiences in negotiating the global climate deal, providing valuable insights into the complexities of international climate diplomacy. Through engaging storytelling and practical solutions, they empower readers to understand the gravity of the climate crisis and take meaningful steps towards a more sustainable world. This book about climate is a wake-up call and a call to action, urging us to make the choices today that will shape the future we want.

best books about climate The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History

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The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History

by Elizabeth Kolbert

The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History by Elizabeth Kolbert is a captivating and eye-opening book about climate change like no other. This groundbreaking piece of non-fiction takes readers on a thrilling journey through the past, present, and future of our planet, shedding light on the devastating impact of human activity and the looming threat of a sixth mass extinction.

best books about climate The Water Will Come: Rising Seas, Sinking Cities, and the Remaking of the Civilized World

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The Water Will Come: Rising Seas, Sinking Cities, and the Remaking of the Civilized World

by Jeff Goodell

The Water Will Come is an eye-opening and urgent book on climate change that exposes the terrifying reality of rising sea levels and its devastating consequences for our world. In this gripping account, Jeff Goodell takes us on a journey to sinking cities and vulnerable coastlines, revealing the imminent threats faced by coastal communities and the urgent need for action. With meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Goodell paints a vivid picture of our future, where bustling metropolises are swallowed by the relentless power of the ocean. This book about climate change serves as a wake-up call, reminding us that the time to act is now. Prepare to be both enlightened and moved by this essential read.

best books about climate The Great Derangement: Climate Change and the Unthinkable

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The Great Derangement: Climate Change and the Unthinkable

by Amitav Ghosh

The Great Derangement: Climate Change and the Unthinkable

The Great Derangement: Climate Change and the Unthinkable

Are you ready to dive into a thought-provoking book on climate that challenges conventional thinking? Look no further than “The Great Derangement” by Amitav Ghosh.

This captivating and groundbreaking book about climate delves into the urgent issue of climate change, exploring how it affects not only our physical environment but also our collective imagination. Ghosh argues that our society has failed to fully comprehend the magnitude of this crisis, leading to a state of denial and “unthinkability” around the subject.

Ghosh, a renowned author and intellectual, examines why contemporary literature and art have largely avoided addressing climate change in a meaningful way. Drawing from a wide range of sources, including history, politics, and cultural theory, he questions why this existential threat has been relegated to the sidelines of our cultural discourse.

Through powerful storytelling and incisive analysis, Ghosh challenges our complacency and calls for a reevaluation of our relationship with the natural world. He argues that the traditional tools of literature and art can play a crucial role in conveying the urgency and complexity of climate change, urging us to confront this crisis head-on.

With its thought-provoking insights and eloquent prose, “The Great Derangement” is a must-read climate book that pushes boundaries and encourages us to confront the unthinkable. Ghosh’s compelling argument will leave you questioning the narratives we tell ourselves and inspire you to seek new ways of understanding and responding to the challenges of climate change.

best books about climate The Madhouse Effect: How Climate Change Denial Is Threatening Our Planet, Destroying Our Politics, and Driving Us Crazy

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The Madhouse Effect: How Climate Change Denial Is Threatening Our Planet, Destroying Our Politics, and Driving Us Crazy

by Michael E. Mann and Tom Toles

The Madhouse Effect: How Climate Change Denial Is Threatening Our Planet, Destroying Our Politics, and Driving Us Crazy is a captivating and thought-provoking book on climate by Michael E. Mann and Tom Toles. With a perfect blend of scientific expertise and witty illustrations, the authors shed light on the alarming consequences of climate change denial. This book about climate delves into the political and psychological factors that contribute to the denial of this urgent crisis. Through their insightful analysis, Mann and Toles reveal the destructive impact of climate change denial on our planet and our society. It is an essential read for anyone seeking a better understanding of the climate crisis and the forces behind climate change denial. Get ready to have your mind opened and your perspectives challenged in this eye-opening climate book.

best books about climate The Weather of the Future: Heat Waves, Extreme Storms, and Other Scenes from a Climate-Changed Planet

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The Weather of the Future: Heat Waves, Extreme Storms, and Other Scenes from a Climate-Changed Planet

by Heidi Cullen

‘The Weather of the Future: Heat Waves, Extreme Storms, and Other Scenes from a Climate-Changed Planet’ is a captivating book on climate written by Heidi Cullen. In this thought-provoking and eye-opening read, Cullen explores the impacts of climate change on our planet, delving into the future of extreme weather phenomena. She examines the potential consequences of rising temperatures, including more frequent and intense heat waves, storms, and other natural disasters. Through engaging storytelling and scientific expertise, Cullen paints a vivid picture of what our climate-changed future might look like. This climate book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the challenges we face and the urgent need for action to mitigate the effects of a changing climate.

best books about climate The Carbon Farming Solution: A Global Toolkit of Perennial Crops and Regenerative Agriculture Practices for Climate Change Mitigation and Food Security

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The Carbon Farming Solution: A Global Toolkit of Perennial Crops and Regenerative Agriculture Practices for Climate Change Mitigation and Food Security

by Eric Toensmeier

The Carbon Farming Solution is an essential book for anyone concerned about the impact of climate change on our planet. Written by Eric Toensmeier, this comprehensive guide offers a global toolkit of perennial crops and regenerative agriculture practices that can help mitigate climate change and ensure food security. With its engaging and accessible writing style, Toensmeier presents a wealth of information on how to harness the power of nature to combat the effects of global warming. This groundbreaking book on climate is a must-read for farmers, policymakers, and individuals looking to make a positive impact on the environment. By implementing the strategies outlined in The Carbon Farming Solution, we can create a more sustainable and resilient world for future generations.

best books about climate The Climate Casino: Risk, Uncertainty, and Economics for a Warming World

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The Climate Casino: Risk, Uncertainty, and Economics for a Warming World

by William D. Nordhaus

The Climate Casino: Risk, Uncertainty, and Economics for a Warming World by William D. Nordhaus is a captivating book about the challenges and complexities of the climate crisis. This insightful book on climate explores the intersection of economics, science, and policy, providing a comprehensive analysis of the risks and uncertainties associated with global warming. Nordhaus, a Nobel laureate in economics, delves into the high-stakes game of climate change, likening it to a casino where humanity risks losing everything. He expertly navigates the complexities of the climate book, shedding light on the economic impacts, potential solutions, and the need for collective action. With its engaging writing style and thought-provoking analysis, this book about climate is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the urgent challenges we face.

best books about climate The Ends of the World: Volcanic Apocalypses, Lethal Oceans, and Our Quest to Understand Earth's Past Mass Extinctions

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The Ends of the World: Volcanic Apocalypses, Lethal Oceans, and Our Quest to Understand Earth’s Past Mass Extinctions

by Peter Brannen

The Ends of the World: Volcanic Apocalypses, Lethal Oceans, and Our Quest to Understand Earth’s Past Mass Extinctions by Peter Brannen is a captivating book on climate that takes readers on a thrilling journey through Earth’s history. Brannen explores the tumultuous events that have shaped our planet and the mass extinctions that have occurred throughout the ages.

In this book about climate, Brannen delves into the catastrophic consequences of volcanic eruptions, deadly oceanic changes, and other cataclysmic events that have caused mass extinctions in the past. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, he reveals the intricate connections between Earth’s climate and the survival of species.

Brannen’s writing style is both informative and captivating, making complex scientific concepts accessible to a wide audience. He seamlessly weaves together historical anecdotes, interviews with scientists, and his own adventurous travels to bring the past to life and shed light on our present and future.

By exploring Earth’s past mass extinctions, Brannen provides valuable insights into the current state of our planet and the potential consequences of human-induced climate change. This climate book serves as a powerful reminder of the delicate balance that exists between our actions and the health of our environment.

Whether you are a science enthusiast or a curious reader, The Ends of the World is a must-read. Brannen’s ability to blend science, history, and storytelling creates a captivating narrative that will leave you with a deep appreciation for Earth’s past and a renewed sense of urgency to protect our planet’s future.

best books about climate The Great Transition: Shifting from Fossil Fuels to Solar and Wind Energy

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The Great Transition: Shifting from Fossil Fuels to Solar and Wind Energy

by Lester R. Brown

The Great Transition: Shifting from Fossil Fuels to Solar and Wind Energy is a captivating book about the urgent need to address our current climate crisis. Written by Lester R. Brown, a renowned environmentalist, this book explores the challenges and opportunities of transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power. Brown presents a compelling case for why we must act now to mitigate the devastating effects of climate change. With a blend of meticulous research and thought-provoking analysis, this book provides a roadmap for a sustainable future. Whether you’re a climate activist, a concerned citizen, or simply curious about the future of our planet, this book is a must-read.

best books about climate The Fate of Food: What We'll Eat in a Bigger, Hotter, Smarter World

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The Fate of Food: What We’ll Eat in a Bigger, Hotter, Smarter World

by Amanda Little

Amanda Little’s The Fate of Food: What We’ll Eat in a Bigger, Hotter, Smarter World is a captivating book on climate that explores the future of our food system in the face of a changing climate. Little takes readers on a global journey, from the high-tech farms of Silicon Valley to the drought-stricken fields of Africa, to understand how we can feed a growing population while also mitigating the impacts of climate change. With in-depth research and interviews with experts, she examines innovative solutions such as vertical farming, genetic engineering, and sustainable agriculture practices. This thought-provoking and eye-opening book about climate is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of our planet and the food we eat.

best books about climate The Burning Question: We Can't Burn Half the World's Oil, Coal, and Gas. So How Do We Quit?

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The Burning Question: We Can’t Burn Half the World’s Oil, Coal, and Gas. So How Do We Quit?

by Mike Berners-Lee and Duncan Clark

The Burning Question is a thought-provoking book on climate that challenges our current fossil fuel addiction. Written by Mike Berners-Lee and Duncan Clark, this insightful book about climate urges us to confront the harsh reality that we cannot continue burning half of the world’s oil, coal, and gas without dire consequences. With a compelling mix of scientific analysis, economic insights, and political considerations, Berners-Lee and Clark explore the urgent need to find alternatives to fossil fuels and present potential solutions for a sustainable future. This climate book shines a light on the burning question of our time: How do we break free from our dependence on fossil fuels and create a cleaner, greener world for future generations?

best books about climate The Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate—Discoveries from a Secret World

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The Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate—Discoveries from a Secret World

by Peter Wohlleben

The Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate—Discoveries from a Secret World by Peter Wohlleben is a captivating book about the intricate and fascinating world of trees. In this enlightening exploration, Wohlleben reveals the astonishing ways in which trees communicate, cooperate, and even feel. From the ancient wisdom passed down through their roots to the complex networks they form underground, trees have a hidden life that is both astonishing and essential to our natural world. This eye-opening book invites readers to delve into the realm of trees, gaining a deeper understanding of their remarkable abilities and the vital role they play in our environment. With its engaging storytelling and thought-provoking insights, The Hidden Life of Trees is a must-read for anyone curious about the wonders of our natural world.

best books about climate The Big Thirst: The Secret Life and Turbulent Future of Water

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The Big Thirst: The Secret Life and Turbulent Future of Water

by Charles Fishman

The Big Thirst: The Secret Life and Turbulent Future of Water by Charles Fishman is a fascinating book that delves into the intricate world of water and its vital role in our lives. This captivating book about climate explores how water shapes our society, economy, and environment, with a particular focus on the challenges we face in the future.

Through captivating stories and thought-provoking research, Fishman takes us on a journey to understand the hidden complexities of water management, from our everyday use to large-scale industries. He reveals the shocking realities of water scarcity, pollution, and mismanagement, while also offering hopeful solutions and inspiring examples of communities that have successfully tackled these issues.

With its engaging narrative and eye-opening insights, The Big Thirst is not just a book on climate, but a wake-up call to recognize the true value of water and the urgent need for us to protect this precious resource for generations to come.

best books about climate The Weather Makers: How Man Is Changing the Climate and What It Means for Life on Earth

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The Weather Makers: How Man Is Changing the Climate and What It Means for Life on Earth

by Tim Flannery

The Weather Makers: How Man Is Changing the Climate and What It Means for Life on Earth by Tim Flannery is a captivating and eye-opening book on climate. Flannery, an acclaimed scientist and environmentalist, provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of our planet and how human activities are impacting the delicate balance of the Earth’s climate. He delves into the history of the planet’s climate and explores the science behind climate change, explaining complex concepts in a way that is accessible to all readers. This thought-provoking book about climate paints a stark picture of the consequences of inaction, but also offers hope for a sustainable future. Flannery’s passionate writing and extensive research make The Weather Makers a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the urgent challenges we face and the potential solutions to combat climate change.

best books about climate The Human Age: The World Shaped by Us

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The Human Age: The World Shaped by Us

by Diane Ackerman

Welcome to “The Human Age: The World Shaped by Us” by Diane Ackerman, a captivating book that delves into the profound influence humans have had on our planet. This thought-provoking and illuminating book on climate explores how we, as a species, have become the driving force behind Earth’s transformation.

best books about climate The Sixth Extinction: Patterns of Life and the Future of Humankind

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The Sixth Extinction: Patterns of Life and the Future of Humankind

by Richard E. Leakey and Roger Lewin

The Sixth Extinction: Patterns of Life and the Future of Humankind by Richard E. Leakey and Roger Lewin is a captivating and thought-provoking book on climate. It delves into the alarming reality of our planet’s sixth mass extinction event, exploring the patterns of life that have shaped our world and the dire consequences of human activities on Earth’s biodiversity. Leakey and Lewin skillfully illustrate the interconnectedness of species and ecosystems, highlighting the delicate balance that has been disrupted by human-induced climate change. This enlightening book about climate presents a compelling argument for urgent action and offers a glimmer of hope for the future if we are willing to change our ways. Prepare to be both inspired and deeply concerned as you journey through the pages of this eye-opening climate book.

best books about climate The Great Disruption: Why the Climate Crisis Will Bring On the End of Shopping and the Birth of a New World

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The Great Disruption: Why the Climate Crisis Will Bring On the End of Shopping and the Birth of a New World

by Paul Gilding

Paul Gilding’s thought-provoking book, The Great Disruption: Why the Climate Crisis Will Bring On the End of Shopping and the Birth of a New World, presents a compelling argument about the future of our planet. This captivating book explores the impending consequences of the climate crisis, offering a fresh perspective on the challenges we face as a global society. Gilding asserts that the climate crisis will not only reshape our world but also revolutionize our way of life. With a poignant and urgent tone, this remarkable climate book predicts the end of excessive consumerism and the dawn of a new era. Through vivid storytelling and compelling evidence, Gilding invites readers to contemplate the profound changes that await us in the face of this colossal challenge.

best books about climate The Revenge of Gaia: Earth's Climate Crisis and the Fate of Humanity

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The Revenge of Gaia: Earth’s Climate Crisis and the Fate of Humanity

by James Lovelock

The Revenge of Gaia is a thought-provoking book on climate by James Lovelock that delves into the urgent crisis Earth is facing. Lovelock, a renowned scientist, presents a compelling argument that our planet has evolved into a self-regulating system, which he aptly names Gaia. However, he warns that human activities have pushed Gaia to a tipping point, resulting in catastrophic climate change. This eye-opening book about climate explores the dire consequences we face if we continue on our current path and offers insights into possible solutions. Lovelock’s captivating narrative, backed by scientific evidence, challenges readers to reevaluate their relationship with the Earth and inspires them to take action to prevent the irreversible consequences of our actions. In short, The Revenge of Gaia is a must-read for anyone concerned about the fate of humanity in the face of the climate crisis.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these are the 20 best books about climate that every environmental enthusiast should read. From thought-provoking non-fiction to captivating novels, these books offer a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities we face in our changing world. Whether you’re interested in climate science, activism, or simply want to explore the impact of climate change on our planet and society, these books will surely broaden your perspective. So grab a cup of tea, curl up with one of these books, and embark on a journey to discover the complexities of our climate system and the urgent need for action.

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  3. 20 best books on conservation – 2023 reading list & recommendations
  4. 20 best books on air pollution – 2023 reading list & recommendations
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