Mary Robinson, a former president of Ireland and UN high commissioner for human rights, has tirelessly advocated for gender equality, human rights, and social justice globally. Although relatively new to the climate justice movement, the activist is committed to advancing change. The book Climate Justice: Hope, Resilience and the Fight for a Sustainable Future is a collection of personal stories of those most affected compiled to convey the reality of climate change.
According to Mary Robinson, “This is the only way to convince people that climate change is real.”
The birth of her grandson in 2003, according to Robinson, became a catalyst for action as she was struck by the uncertainty of the world he had been born into. The book is an insight into climate change and its effects across the globe and how it intersects with poverty and inequity. She goes on to weave stories of individuals and communities from different continents who have felt the impacts of climate change and have chosen to act on it. She warns about the current and potential consequences of climate change, pointing out that local solutions can grow into global ideas, resulting in positive, long-lasting change.
With this book, climate change is no longer an abstract scientific notion, but instead a lived experience. Despite its title, this book does not contain any practical advice about how to live a more sustainable life or reduce one’s carbon footprint. Instead, it’s a must-read for anyone curious about climate change and the severity of the crisis. You will learn why climate change needs to be taken seriously, and why it should be a primary factor in decision-making. It will inspire you and make you think about your next steps for combating climate change.
