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How to avoid a climate disaster

Name: How to avoid a climate disaster
ISBN: 9780141993010

by Bill Gates

8.22 / 10 52K ratings

Language: English
Published: 2022
Publisher: Penguin
Pages: 272
ISBN: 9780141993010

Genres: Nonfiction › Nature & environment › Climate & conservation Nonfiction › Business & economics › Economics Nonfiction › Technology › Computing › Programming Nonfiction › Politics › Government & public policy Nonfiction › Science & mathematics › Biology
Themes: Nature › Climate change Health & illness › Pandemics
Style: Form: Essays

Original edition

Cómo Evitar un Desastre Climático. Las soluciones que ya tenemos y los avances que aún necesitamos

Originally published in 2021 Spanish

Other editions (75)

What other readers say

Liked

This book is widely praised for its accessibility and comprehensive overview of climate change. Many readers found it to be an excellent starting point for understanding the complex issue, explaining scientific concepts in a clear, easy-to-read manner. Positives highlighted include the book's practical approach to achieving zero emissions, its detailed breakdown of greenhouse gas sources across various sectors, and its focus on large-scale technological solutions and innovations. Reviewers appreciated how the author addresses controversial questions and presents a well-informed, optimistic, and ambitious plan for the future, without getting bogged down in overly technical jargon. The discussion of innovative energy alternatives, such as advanced nuclear fission and direct capture technology, was also noted as particularly insightful.

Disliked

However, the book also drew significant criticism. Some readers who were already knowledgeable about climate change found much of the content to be a rehash of basic information, offering little new insight. A common point of contention was the book's emphasis on governmental and corporate actions and technological breakthroughs, with perceived insufficient attention paid to individual agency or changes in personal behavior and consumption. Critics argued that the author's perspective, stemming from a position of wealth, led to an overly optimistic tone and a focus on maintaining existing economic systems through clean technology, rather than addressing systemic issues or the need for reduced consumption. Repetition of ideas and a self-congratulatory tone were also mentioned as drawbacks by some.

In short

Overall, the book offers a broad and digestible introduction to the challenges of climate change and potential solutions, primarily through technological innovation and large-scale policy changes. While it may not satisfy readers seeking in-depth scientific analysis or a strong focus on individual responsibility, it serves as a valuable resource for beginners to the topic. It is particularly well-suited for those interested in understanding the big picture of climate change, the role of governments and industry, and the potential of new technologies to achieve a zero-emissions future by 2050.

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