Eaarth: Making A Life On A Tough New Planet (2010) - Plot & Excerpts
Bill McKibben titled this book "Eaarth" claiming that we have drastically altered our planet to the point where we can no longer call it by its original name. The first chapter contains more than enough statistical evidence to convince skeptics that if we continue at our current trends we will be forced to face the irreversible consequences within our lifetime. We are the last generation that can make a difference but since Eaarth's publication, have we begun to make the necessary changes to get back to 350 ppm? Nope. Right now, recent research estimates that our atmosphere currently has 395 ppm. McKibben suggests that our best hope for survival lies within each individual community doing what's best for their geographical area. The main two ideas that I've taken away from this unsettling piece of literature are:1 - We're fucked 2 - I need to move to Vermont This was another First Year Summer Read candidate, and while I liked it, it wasn't terribly accessible and I doubt it will work well for incoming college freshmen. The message is super important: not only will climate change alter our world beyond recognition in the future, it has already changed earth significantly now. One of my issues with this is that the first chapter was almost impenetrable to me - it was heavy on the statistics and scientific lingo. I enjoyed the second half of the book, when McKibben starts to talk about ways to live small and live locally, and I definitely want some solar panels for my house, but it overall felt like a disjointed read. Like I was being yelled at for the first half and kindly encouraged for the second.
What do You think about Eaarth: Making A Life On A Tough New Planet (2010)?
Very eye-opening piece. I recommend this to anyone interested in environmental issues.
—jeremy
Should be required reading for all residents.
—gowser400
