Low-Carbon Birding

Birdwatching in Britain has grown increasingly dependent on burning fossil fuels, but a growing number of birders are reassessing their approach. Low-carbon birding is a legitimate and valuable way of enjoying birds, bringing many joys and an urgent call for birders to leave a better legacy in the skies and across the living world.

Format: Hardback
Length: 276 pages
Publication date: 06 September 2022
Publisher: Pelagic Publishing

Birdwatching in Britain has become increasingly reliant on the burning of fossil fuels, with regular long-distance drives to birding hotspots and frequent flights to observe exotic species considered commonplace. However, in the face of the climate crisis, a growing number of birders are reevaluating their approach to birding and studying birds. In this timely book, thirty contributors, ranging from young birdwatchers to professional ornithologists, explain why and how they are transitioning to climate-friendly practices. They argue that low-carbon birding is a legitimate and valuable way to enjoy birds, offering numerous joys that may be unexpected.

The stories shared in this book are not about heroic efforts to save the planet. Rather, they portray everyday humanity in extraordinary times—ordinary people grappling with doubts and concerns about how to live a decent life and act responsibly in a rapidly warming world. The authenticity of the contributors' voices serves as a testament to the moment of awakening to the climate crisis in British ornithology.

Above all, Low-Carbon Birding is an urgent call for birders to leave a better legacy in the skies and across the living world. It encourages birders to adopt sustainable practices, such as reducing their carbon footprint, supporting conservation efforts, and promoting bird-friendly habitats. By adopting these practices, birders can contribute to the preservation of biodiversity and the health of the environment for future generations.

In conclusion, birdwatching in Britain has evolved, and a growing number of birders are recognizing the importance of adopting climate-friendly practices. Low-carbon birding offers a legitimate and valuable way to enjoy birds, while also promoting sustainability and leaving a positive legacy in the skies and across the living world. By embracing these practices, birders can contribute to the conservation of biodiversity and the fight against climate change.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781784273446