Description

Around the world, countries and companies are setting net-zero carbon emissions targets. But “net-zero” is a term that conveniently obscures multiple futures. There could be a version of net-zero where the fossil fuel industry is still spewing tens of billions of tons of CO2 into the atmosphere, and has built a corresponding industry in sucking it back out again. Holly Buck argues that focusing on emissions draws our attention away from where we need to be looking: the point of production.

It is time to plan for the end of fossil fuel and the companies that profit from them. Fossil fuels still provide 80% of world energy and ceasing their use before there are ready alternatives brings risks of energy poverty. The fossil fuel industry provides jobs, as well as a source of revenue for some frontline communities. Conventional wisdom says that fossil fuels will be naturally priced out when cheaper, but this raises as many problems as it addresses. Ending Fossil Fuels tackles these problems seriously and also sets out a roadmap that offer opportunities for more liveable, inclusive future.

Publisher Review

"This book belongs in every classroom, community center, and protest site where fossil fuels are mined, processed, transported, or burned-which is to say everywhere." - Billy Fleming, author of Drowning America "Rare is a book like this that can offer such a clear and accessible overview of the multifaceted engineering, political, economic, and cultural challenges we face. A crucial text." - Matt Huber, author of Lifeblood: Oil, Freedom, and the Forces of Capital "Buck's brilliant weaving of the political, technological, and economic complexities cuts through the hedging and posturing and shows how to actually avoid climate disaster." - Benjamin Bratton, author of The Revenge of the Real "Considered, beautifully written, and mindful of the many actors at play in shaping our planet. Most importantly, it foregrounds the importance of ensuring frontline communities' prosperity in our future economy." -Antonia Jennings and Eleanor Radcliffe, Stir to Action