Environmental Political Thought: Interests, Values and Inclusion

The textbook provides a comprehensive overview of environmental political thinking, covering prominent theories, concepts, and debates, and offers a foundation for tackling thorny questions and reconciling competing interests and influences. It concludes by exploring the idea of a sustainable future and how society must be structured to achieve it.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 186 pages
Publication date: 06 October 2018
Publisher: Macmillan Education UK

Environmental political thinking is a complex and multifaceted field that encompasses a wide range of theories, concepts, and debates. Robert Garner, an esteemed scholar in the field, offers a comprehensive overview of these topics in his textbook, "Environmental Political Thinking: A Comprehensive Introduction." The book provides a foundation for readers to better understand the challenges and opportunities associated with environmental policy and decision-making.

One of the key themes of the book is the concept of environmental cost. Garner argues that there is a limit to the amount of environmental damage that society can tolerate in order to achieve development. He explores the various factors that contribute to environmental degradation, including population growth, resource consumption, and climate change, and suggests that we must find ways to reduce our environmental footprint.

Another important concept in environmental political thinking is sustainability. Garner defines sustainability as the ability of a system to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. He argues that sustainability is a fundamental principle of environmental policy and that it should be applied to all aspects of society, including the economy, the environment, and social justice.

To achieve sustainability, Garner suggests that society must be structured in a way that promotes social equity, environmental protection, and economic growth. He argues that this can be achieved through the implementation of policies that promote renewable energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and protect natural resources.

However, achieving sustainability is not without its challenges. Garner highlights the political and economic interests that often conflict with environmental protection. He argues that these conflicts must be addressed through the development of effective policies and the engagement of stakeholders.

One of the challenges that Garner identifies is the need to reconcile competing interests and influences in the political sphere. He argues that this can be achieved through the development of democratic institutions that allow for the participation of all stakeholders in the decision-making process.

Another challenge is the need to address the global nature of environmental problems. Garner argues that environmental problems are not confined to any one country or region, and that they require a global response. He suggests that this can be achieved through the development of international agreements and the implementation of global policies.

In addition to these challenges, Garner also explores the idea of a sustainable future. He argues that a sustainable future is one that is characterized by a healthy environment, a prosperous economy, and social justice. He suggests that this can be achieved through the implementation of policies that promote sustainable development, reduce poverty, and protect human rights.

To achieve a sustainable future, Garner suggests that society must be willing to make sacrifices. He argues that this can be achieved through the development of a sense of responsibility and the recognition of the interdependence of all living things.

In conclusion, "Environmental Political Thinking: A Comprehensive Introduction" is a comprehensive and insightful textbook that offers a foundation for readers to better understand the challenges and opportunities associated with environmental policy and decision-making. Robert Garner's exploration of the concept of environmental cost, sustainability, and the need to reconcile competing interests and influences in the political sphere is particularly valuable. The book is designed for those studying environmental and green political thought, as well as readers keen to understand the development of environmental political thought over recent generations.

Weight: 266g
Dimension: 210 x 168 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781137607393
Edition number: 1st ed. 2019