Humans have changed the Earth so profoundly that we've ushered in the
first new geologic period since the ice ages. So, what are we going to
do about it?
Ever since Nobel Prize-winning atmospheric chemist Paul Crutzen coined
the term "Anthropocene" to describe our current era--one in which human
impact on the environment has pushed Earth into an entirely new
geological epoch--arguments for and against the new designation have
been raging. Finally, an official working group of scientists was
created to determine once and for all whether we humans have tossed one
too many plastic bottles out the car window and wrought a change so
profound as to be on par with the end of the last ice age. In summer
2016, the answer came back: Yes.
In Making the Most of the Anthropocene, scientist Mark Denny tackles
this hard truth head-on and considers burning questions: How did we
reach our present technological and ecological state? How are we going
to cope with our uncertain future? Will we come out of this, or are we
doomed as a species? Is there anything we can do about what happens
next? This book
- explains what the Anthropocene is and why it is important
- offers suggestions for minimizing harm instead of fretting about an
impending environmental apocalypse
- combines easy-to-grasp scientific, technological, economic, and
anthropological analyses
In Making the Most of the Anthopocene, there are no equations, no
graphs, and no impenetrable jargon. Instead, you'll find a fascinating
cast of characters, including journalists from outer space, peppered
moths, and unjustly maligned Polynesians. In his bright, lively voice,
Denny envisions a future that balances reaction and reason, one in which
humanity emerges bloody but unbowed--and in which those of us who are
prepared can make the most of the Anthropocene.
