The Atlas of Climate Change: Mapping the World's Greatest Challenge (Atlas Of... (University of California Press)) - Softcover

Today's headlines and recent events reflect the gravity of climate change. Heat waves, droughts, and floods are bringing death to vulnerable populations, destroying livelihoods, and driving people from their homes. Rigorous in its science and insightful in its message, this atlas examines the causes of climate change and considers its possible impact on subsistence, water resources, ecosystems, biodiversity, health, coastal megacities, and cultural treasures. It reviews historical contributions to greenhouse gas levels, progress in meeting international commitments, and local efforts to meet the challenge of climate change. With more than 50 full-color maps and graphics, this is an essential resource for policy makers, environmentalists, students, and everyone concerned with this pressing subject. The atlas covers a wide range of topics, including: warning signs; future scenarios; vulnerable populations; health; renewable energy; emissions reduction; and, personal and public action.

"No challenge is more urgent than the need to achieve climate security. We will not succeed unless we base our decisions on a clear understanding of the complex interplay between the choices we are making and their consequences for natural and human systems. This pioneering atlas sets out much of the available knowledge in an attractive and accessible way. It will become an essential point of reference for anyone looking for a quick and accurate overview of this multidisciplinary subject."John Ashton, Foreign Commonwealth Office (FCO)