Hope in Hell: A Decade to Confront the Climate Emergency - Jonathan Porritt

This is a powerful read that takes one through many many facets of the climate crisis, giving any reader a thorough introduction to this complex issue in an accessible and not over-technical way. Jonathan makes compelling arguments as to why action is needed right now, or tipping points will be past and there will be no route back and he admits to how difficult it can be to maintain hope in the face of that reality. However, he has many sensible suggestions as to what could be done. I was struck by the obviousness of needing to get rid of schemes such a frequent flier discounts that incentivise more and more flying and replace them with a frequent flier levy, whilst significantly taxing jet fuel and banning advertising by airlines. Interestingly Jonathan comes down in favour of paying carbon offsets for flights as it can provide a way of channelling money from wealthy people to poorer countries which are disproportionately affected by climate change. The rise of the far right and populism is also discussed given that the same people are often also climate deniers, and China comes in for some detailed discussion.

All in all the members of the book club felt this was an informative book that made them realise how many different aspects of modern life are relevant to the climate crisis and can therefore become part of the solution.

Jonathan refers to the work of political scientist Erica Chenoweth, which shows that ‘it only takes 3.5% of the population of any country actively participating in protests to achieve significant political change’ which felt to us like a compelling reason to get out there and do our bit!