Routledge State of the World 2009: Confronting Climate Change

The year 2009 will be pivotal for Earth's climate. As scientists warn that we have only a few years to reverse the rise in greenhouse gas emissions if we are to avoid abrupt and catastrophic climate change, the world community has agreed to finalize negotiations on a new climate agreement in Copenhagen in late 2009. Intended to inject new inspiration and energy into national and international climate negotiations, this 26th edition of State of the World examines the steps we urgently need to take to prevent a global catastrophe while adapting to the now inevitable climatic shifts already set in motion. As well as the profound, long-term consequences of global warming, this volume explores the policy changes needed and the benefits that will flow from the transition to a low-carbon economy. It also includes 22 summaries on the many important issues linked to climate change, plus a Climate Change Reference Guide and Glossary. Published annually in 28 languages, State of the World is long established as the most authoritative and accessible annual guide to our progress towards a sustainable future. It is relied upon by national governments, UN agencies, development workers and law-makers for its up-to-the-minute analysis and information. Essential reading for anyone concerned with building a positive, global future. Review 'The most authoritative guide to the state of the planet.' The Guardian. 'The environmentalist's bible' Times Higher Education. 'One thing can be stated with certainty: the contributors to this impressive volume have worked hard to snap us out of our enduring complacency [regarding global warming]. Their efforts have improved the chances of history dispensing a more complimentary verdict on how we thought and acted at this most pivotal of environmental moments.' Geographical 'Essential reading' The Good Book Guide. 'State of the World 2009 is a research masterpiece, the single most important reference guide to climate change yet published.' Alex Steffen, Executive Editor, Worldchanging.com. 'State of the World 2009 is a very timely compendium of up-to-date thinking.' Bill McKibben. 'A remarkable source of intellectual wealth that provides understanding and insight not only on the physical state of the planet but on humans as they are linked with ecosystems and natural resources around the world' From the foreword by R. K. Pachauri, Chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. 'The report provides a comprehensive guide to global warming and the steps we must take to combat it.' Bharti Patel, Director, Svaraj in Splash Magazine. About the Author The Worldwatch Institute in Washington DC is one of the world's leading research centres for environmentally sustainable development.