Four Degrees of Global Warming: Australia in a Hot World
This is an important book that addresses the defining question of the 21st century: Can we really afford to let the world slip down the warming slope – towards the 4 degrees mark or even beyond? The authors provide compelling evidence from the Australian perspective that the answer reads "no". Peter Christoff should be praised for initiating and editing this colossal intellectual effort.–Hans Joachim Schellnhuber, Postdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, Germany'Four Degrees' reveals what might become of Australians and their country if global average temperatures are allowed to increase by 4 degrees above that of 200 years ago. It paints a 'bleak vision of a continent under assault.' And that will be out future if we do nothing - just keep going along as we are today. Thankfully the book is also full of clear and realistic solutions, which makes it a must-read for all caring Australians.–Tim Flannery, Chief Commissioner, Climate Commission, AustraliaThis important book, though ostensibly about climate change, raises profound and personal questions about the type of world we wish to bequeath our children. Setting out stark and scientifically informed choices, the authors provide a cogent framing of the challenging issues facing Australian policy makers, businesses and civil society.–Kevin Anderson, University of Manchester, UKDespite a generation of talks, the international community has failed to stem the global increase in greenhouse gas pollution that is causing climate change. Consequently, the earth is set to get hotter, and Australia is in the eye of the storm. In this important new book, Peter Christoff brings together the insights of distinguished scholars, scientists and analysts. They explore the ecological, social and economic impacts for Australia of a much warmer world, in the process providing a valuable guide to the future.–Paul G. Harris, Hong Kong Institute of Education