The Future We Choose

Surviving the Climate Crisis

by Christiana Figueres, Tom Rivett-Carnac

4.6(1,198 ratings)

10 min read

Brief overview

This book shows how we can tackle the climate crisis by reimagining our place in nature and transforming our mindset. It offers stories that emphasize hope, collaboration, and concrete actions we can take in our daily lives. By shifting our outlook, embracing new ideas, and refusing to give up, we can boldly shape a healthier and more sustainable future for everyone.

Introduction

Climate change can be overwhelming. We see powerful storms, rising sea levels, and new challenges shaping our everyday lives. Yet, amid the anxiety, a powerful message of hope rings out: we have the agency to forge a better future. The question is whether we will seize the moment or let it slip by.

In these pages, you'll discover that addressing climate change goes beyond data and fact sheets. It's about our mindset—how we choose to see ourselves in relation to the planet. We can remain gloomy and stuck, or we can embrace optimism, collaboration, and collective power.

The authors' experiences, including leading large-scale climate negotiations, reveal just how important it is to first believe success is possible. An attitude of stubborn optimism breathes life into bold ideas, encouraging them to take shape and grow.

No matter how big the problem seems, our commitment and perspective can change everything.

Two Possible Futures

Many experts believe we stand at a crossroads. One path leads to more droughts, heat waves, and communities forced to flee their homes. Without major changes, we’ll see wilder storms and an atmosphere too hot to support the forests and wildlife we love.

On the other hand, there remains a path of sustainability. Picture a world in 2050 where cities teem with trees, clean public transit rules the road, and carbon emissions are nearly zero. This second future is more than a fantasy—it’s a real possibility if we radically shift our habits, governments, and economies in time.

That means cutting emissions by half each decade until we reach net zero in 2050, making rapid changes in energy, transportation, and agriculture. It’s a tall order, but not impossible. And we can find plenty of examples—like countries running fully on renewables—that show how quickly progress can unfold when the will to change is strong.

If we take the right steps now, a bright and livable future could be ours. ~ Adapted from the text

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What is The Future We Choose about?

"The Future We Choose: Surviving the Climate Crisis" by Christiana Figueres and Tom Rivett-Carnac tackles one of the world's most pressing issues with a unique blend of optimism and actionable guidance. As former UN climate change secretariat heads, the authors draw upon their unique experiences to empower readers with insights and strategies that drive real change. Central to the book is the argument that optimism is indispensable for defeating the looming threat of climate change. This belief underpins the book's advice on how individuals and communities can make impactful changes in their daily lives that collectively fuel a sustainable and hopeful future.

A key element of the book's value lies in its emphasis on mindset. Through compelling narratives and examples, it demonstrates how adopting an outlook of abundance and collaboration can radically reshape our relationship with the Earth. Moreover, the authors introduce a range of practical measures, from reimagining consumption patterns to advocating for political action, which collectively guide readers in creating a healthier, greener planet. Ultimately, "The Future We Choose" makes the case that while the challenge is monumental, the potential for positive impact remains within our reach if we choose to embrace collaboration, reimagination, and determination.

Review of The Future We Choose

"The Future We Choose: Surviving the Climate Crisis" stands out by fusing a sense of urgency with hope, offering a masterclass in realistic optimism and strategic action. The authors, veteran climate activists, articulate both the scale of the climate challenge we face and the power of transformational thinking. Through a rich tapestry of anecdotes and visionary possibilities, the book unveils a blueprint for a regenerative world.

The undeniable strength of the book is its unique narrative structure that encourages actionable optimism. Rather than mere prognostication, it presents a balance between impending challenges and feasible solutions, ensuring that readers feel equipped rather than overwhelmed. Important takeaways reveal how shifts in our consumption and perspectives can drive collective progress while placing significant focus on policy, technology, and community efforts. However, what elevates the work is its accessibility. The prose is engaging and approachable, sparking curiosity and dialogue on subjects often stifled by scientific jargon.

This book is particularly beneficial for environmentally conscious readers, policy advocates, and change-makers desiring insight into achievable environmental reform strategies. It postulates a hopeful future without diminishing the enormous commitment required, aligning readers' focus on tangible pathways to positive change.

Ultimately, for those willing to embrace the triple tools of optimism, collaboration, and decisive action, "The Future We Choose" serves as an enlightening companion and an intellectual catalyst.

Who should read The Future We Choose?

Environmental Enthusiasts: Individuals passionate about preserving nature and eager to learn about pragmatic solutions and strategies for climate action.
Policy Advocates: Professionals engaging in environmental policy and seeking inspiration and evidence of successful climate agreements.
Educators and Students: Those teaching or studying sustainability or environmental science looking for well-researched, real-world examples of combating climate change.
Community Leaders: Individuals fostering local initiatives to combat climate crises who can benefit from actionable strategies and insights provided in the book.
Renewable Energy Developers: Professionals seeking a broader context for their work within global environmental challenges and opportunities.

About the author

Christiana Figueres is a renowned climate change expert who served as the Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) from 2010 to 2016. She played a pivotal role in the negotiation of the Paris Agreement in 2015. Tom Rivett-Carnac is a former president and CEO of the Carbon Disclosure Project U.S.A. and a senior strategy advisor to the UN. Together, they co-authored "The Future We Choose: Surviving the Climate Crisis," drawing on their extensive experience in climate change policy and negotiation. They emphasize the need for collective action to halve global emissions by 2030 and reach net zero emissions by 2050.