All We Want is the Earth: Land, Labour and Movements Beyond Environmentalism

Sixty years ago, social movements protested industrial capitalism's ecological harms. In the following decades, environmentalism evolved into management and business strategies to tackle ecological degradation. This book traces a counter-history of modern environmentalism from the 1960s to the present, focusing on claims by feminist, anti-colonial, Indigenous, workers, and agrarian movements concerning land, labor, and social reproduction.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 168 pages
Publication date: 27 July 2023
Publisher: Bristol University Press

Sixty years ago, a surge of social movements arose to challenge the ecological consequences of industrial capitalism. Over the ensuing decades, environmentalism evolved into management and business strategies aimed at addressing ecological degradation while fostering sustainable economic growth. However, the predominant emphasis on protecting spaces and species often overshadowed concerns about human labor and the legacies of colonialism. This book delves into a counter-history of modern environmentalism, spanning from the 1960s to the present day. It specifically examines claims related to land, labor, and social reproduction made by feminist, anti-colonial, Indigenous, workers, and agrarian movements. These movements, while not traditionally labeled as "environmental," hold significant potential for addressing the escalating ecological damage and social injustices of our time.

The 1960s marked a pivotal period in the development of modern environmentalism. During this time, feminist, anti-colonial, and Indigenous movements emerged, raising concerns about the disproportionate impact of environmental degradation on marginalized communities. These movements challenged the dominant narratives of environmentalism, which often prioritized the interests of affluent white individuals and Western nations. They emphasized the importance of recognizing the interconnections between environmental issues and social justice, advocating for the rights and livelihoods of marginalized groups.

One of the key claims made by these movements was the recognition of the connection between land and labor. They argued that the exploitation of land and natural resources for industrial and agricultural purposes often resulted in the displacement and marginalization of Indigenous communities and workers. They demanded the recognition of land rights and the protection of ancestral lands from corporate encroachment. Additionally, these movements highlighted the importance of sustainable agriculture and food systems, which prioritize the health of the environment and the well-being of farmers and consumers.

Another important claim made by these movements was the recognition of the role of social reproduction in environmental degradation. They argued that the unequal distribution of resources and power within society led to the perpetuation of environmental harm and social injustice. They demanded policies that promote social equality, such as universal healthcare, education, and social welfare programs, to address the root causes of environmental degradation and promote sustainable development.

Despite the significant contributions of these movements, their voices have often been marginalized within mainstream environmentalism. This is partly due to the dominance of scientific and technical expertise in environmental decision-making processes, which often excludes the perspectives and experiences of marginalized communities. Additionally, the focus on protecting spaces and species has sometimes overshadowed the importance of addressing the root

In conclusion, the counter-history of modern environmentalism presented in this book highlights the vital contributions of feminist, anti-colonial, Indigenous, workers, and agrarian movements to the development of environmentalism. These movements have challenged the dominant narratives of environmentalism, emphasized the interconnections between environmental issues and social justice, and advocated for the rights and livelihoods of marginalized groups. Their claims related to land, labor, and social reproduction offer valuable insights into the ways forward in addressing the escalating ecological damage and social injustices of our time. By recognizing the legacies of colonialism and the importance of human labor, we can create a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.

Weight: 318g
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529218336