Populism, Eco-populism, and the Future of Environmentalism

Populism is a widely researched topic, but there are few books on eco-populism. This book is timely, as it discusses climate change and the rise of the far right, two of the most important issues of the present.

Format: Hardback
Length: 242 pages
Publication date: 13 May 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Populism has garnered significant scholarly attention and remains a highly debated topic, particularly in relation to eco-populism. While there exists a substantial body of research on populism, there is a notable scarcity of books that specifically focus on this particular strand of ideology. This is particularly relevant in the current context, as the world faces the urgent challenges of climate change and the resurgence of far-right ideologies.

Climate change, a global phenomenon with far-reaching consequences, poses a significant threat to human societies and the planet's ecosystems. The scientific consensus is clear: human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, are the primary drivers of climate change. This has led to rising temperatures, melting glaciers, and extreme weather events, which have disrupted ecosystems, displaced populations, and exacerbated social and economic inequalities.

At the same time, the rise of the far right has been a concerning trend in many parts of the world. Far-right ideologies often promote nationalism, xenophobia, and anti-immigration sentiments, which can lead to social tensions and political instability. These ideologies often disregard scientific evidence and prioritize the interests of a small elite over the broader public good.

Eco-populism, as the name suggests, is a fusion of populism and environmentalism. It seeks to address the concerns of both environmentalists and those who are concerned about social and economic inequality. Eco-populists argue that the current economic system is flawed and that it prioritizes short-term profits over long-term sustainability. They advocate for policies that promote renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and social justice, while also criticizing the corporate sector and the political establishment for their role in perpetuating environmental degradation and inequality.

Despite the urgency of the climate crisis and the rise of the far right, there are still few books that delve into the intersection of these two issues. This is a significant gap in the literature, as it means that there is limited understanding of how these two phenomena interact and influence each other. By exploring the relationship between climate change and the far right, we can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges that we face and develop more effective strategies for addressing them.

One of the key insights of eco-populism is that climate change is not just an environmental issue, but also a social and economic issue. Climate change affects not only the natural world, but also human societies and economies. For example, extreme weather events can lead to crop failures, food shortages, and economic instability, which can exacerbate social tensions and political unrest. Similarly, the displacement of communities due to climate change can lead to social isolation and marginalization, which can fuel the rise of far-right ideologies.

Eco-populism also recognizes the role that the corporate sector plays in perpetuating environmental degradation and inequality. Many corporations have a long history of exploiting natural resources and polluting the environment, while also benefiting from government subsidies and tax breaks. Eco-populists argue that these corporations should be held accountable for their actions and that they should be required to pay their fair share of taxes and contribute to the development of sustainable communities.

Furthermore, eco-populism emphasizes the importance of grassroots activism and community engagement in addressing climate change and the far right. It recognizes that these issues cannot be solved by top-down policies alone, but require the participation and collaboration of ordinary people and communities. Eco-populists advocate for policies that promote community-based renewable energy projects, sustainable agriculture practices, and social justice initiatives, while also providing support for grassroots organizations and movements that are working to address these issues.

In conclusion, the intersection of climate change and the rise of the far right is a pressing issue that requires urgent attention. While there has been significant research on populism and environmentalism, there is a notable scarcity of books that specifically focus on eco-populism. By exploring the relationship between these two phenomena, we can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges that we face and develop more effective strategies for addressing them. Eco-populism recognizes that climate change is not just an environmental issue, but also a social and economic issue that requires the participation and collaboration of ordinary people and communities. By promoting policies that prioritize sustainability, social justice, and community engagement, we can build a more resilient and sustainable future for ourselves and future generations.

Weight: 630g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032205724