Routledge Ecosocialism: Climate Change, Socialism and Democracy

Ecosocialism: Climate Change, Socialism and Democracy maps out a political path for green transition which is both desirable and practicable – without avoiding its difficulties – giving the fight for climate justice real mobilising power. The author analyses how capitalism prevents climate transition, assessing in detail why the climate cause is not more widely embraced by the working classes, when they are infinitely less responsible and suffer far more from the effects of environmental degradation than their wealthier counterparts. He argues that, faced with the supporters of green capitalism, who promise us that we will be able to continue current lifestyles unhindered – thanks to new technologies – the left seems disarmed. Globally, we face an immense challenge: in the span of one generation, we must decarbonise our planet by 2050. We must make huge changes – but a successful transition could bring huge benefits. This book tackles the root cause of the problem: inequalities and the hyper-concentration of wealth, which are driving forces behind the continued increase in greenhouse gas emissions and the loss of biodiversity. Denouncing the liberal mythologies of “green growth” and “decoupling”, the author frames climate justice as an authentic social struggle, uniting the underclasses of the world, and arguing for the need to develop essential communal services, to put an end to insecurity and protect the planet. The intention is that a full life and sustainable environment are no longer the privilege of a few but the reality of all. This book will appeal to students and scholars of political science and environment and sustainability – as well as all those concerned with climate justice and the current ecological crisis.