Not the End of the World

Data scientist Hannah Ritchie argues that, seen from a wider angle, the data on environmental problems show enough progress that humanity could be on track for true sustainability for the first time. She pushes back against doomsday headlines warning that soils will stop supporting crops, that fish will vanish from the oceans and that people should reconsider having children. Using recent research and graphics, she revisits common beliefs about plastic straws and palm oil, the benefits of local food and country living, and the harm of overpopulation, separating what works from what does not and naming where effort is most urgently needed. Chatto & Windus published it as Ritchie's first book, and it reached the Sunday Times top ten bestseller list.

Bill Gates, in his 2023 holiday recommendations, said anyone who wants to talk about climate change in an informed way should read it.