Living Hot (Clive Hamilton & George Wilkenfeld, Hardie Grant Books)
Living Hot by Clive Hamilton (Silent Invasion) and independent energy consultant George Wilkenfeld, provides a stark assessment of Australia’s response to climate change, emphasising that the inertia behind carbon emissions reduction won’t easily shift without significant upheaval such as a global economic collapse or world war. Even with the sobering outlook, the book offers valuable insight into the nation’s climate change narrative, critiques prevailing arguments, and explores government inaction. It delves into the psychology of false hope, challenges the viability of renewable energy solutions, and scrutinises proposed strategies such as electrification. Hamilton and Wilkenfeld emphasise the necessity of preparation and adaptation, acknowledging the complexity of the challenge ahead, the costs, and the limited impact Australia’s actions will have on future global climate scenarios. Living Hot will offer a fresh perspective on climate change to some readers as it advocates for a shift towards local solutions, such as self-sufficient food zones and trained local advisors. Throughout the book, the inclusion of local government examples, including in First Nations communities, illustrates recent climate crises and highlights trailblazers we can learn from. There’s a lot covered for such a short book, making Living Hot an excellent introduction for those ready to engage in further conversation and who are open to confronting the psychological challenges of a warming world. By tackling sometimes uncomfortable truths, questioning the proposed solutions to date, and advocating for transformative action, Living Hot encourages readers to take meaningful steps towards addressing climate change, such as landscape management, internal migration, a national heat strategy and action plan, and the ‘climate proofing’ of infrastructure.
Books+Publishing reviewer: Jess Lomas is the Books+Publishing reviews editor. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.
Category: Friday Unlocked reviews Reviews
