Not the End of the World - Hannah Ritchie

I should probably start this write up with a warning - I loved this book by Hannah Ritchie, and bought a copy for my 17 year old niece. This book tells the positive story that teenagers (and everyone else) need to hear. It does not shy away from the truth that climate change is real, it is here and we need to do something about it. But it does give solutions and hope.

Hannah Ritchie is a data scientist, and there is a lot of data, which could feel overwhelming. Some of the group looked for the facts she gave, and they could be found elsewhere, and the end notes are extensive. The author aims to give the information to counteract the "news". Disaster stories sell, and lead to hopelessness, drag and inactivity. The figures show that the world can and is taking action (whether this is quick enough is another matter). The past was a terrible place for many, with poverty, starvation and pollution. The future does not have to be. We know what to do, we just have to get on with it. The UK's air is the cleanest it has been for centuries. China has halved its air pollution in seven years. It can be done, and now.

The book is divided up into chapters, and it would be worth rereading bit by bit, to have time to assimilate the information given. The temptation to keep some of the charts, and reproduce them is great. The climate cost of various protein sources was dramatic and should be shouted from the rooftops.

We need to "stop burning stuff". We have cheap renewable energy and storage is a fast growing technology. We need to feed the world efficiently, reducing hunger, pollution and saving forests. Reduce the land needed to feed the animals we eat and there is more space for wildlife. Improvements to waste management will prevent plastics entering our rivers and seas.

Her three things to bear in mind were

• being an effective environmentalist can make you feel like a "bad" one (you can't win but you should at least try)

• systemic change is key (political action and using your wallet - money talks)

• stick with others pulling in the same direction (join ERA and find your tribe)

This book is full of ideas and hope. It matters what you do, so don't give up.... and eat more beans :)

Elizabeth Eveleigh