The Climate-Health-Sustainability Nexus

Book excerpt: In a compelling scholarly journey, this book unfolds the intricate narratives of human progress and its environmental repercussions catalyzed by the Industrial Revolution. It thoughtfully contrasts the exploitative environmental ideologies stemming from colonization and industrialization against the profound yet often marginalized indigenous ecological philosophies, urging a pivotal shift in environmental stewardship. The narrative meticulously traces the arc of scientific discovery and environmental policy evolution, from Eunice Foote’s groundbreaking hypothesis on the greenhouse effect to the landmark achievements of the Paris Agreement, encapsulating over a century of environmental activism and scholarly debate. The discourse extends beyond traditional environmental concerns, exploring the intersection of climate change with public health, food security, and gender disparities, underscoring the urgency of sustainable agricultural practices and the pivotal role of women in food systems. It introduces the transformative potential of digital health innovations and renewable energy technologies as crucial tools in climate mitigation, highlighting the need for an integrated socio-technical governance model that includes community resilience and biopsychosocial health. The book critically addresses the dynamics of climate finance, advocating for inclusive green growth through strategic renewable energy investments, and revisits the ‘Tragedy of the Commons’ to challenge conventional views on communal resource management. It advocates for a justice-oriented approach to tackling the multifaceted environmental, social, and economic challenges, with a particular lens on the adverse impacts borne by marginalized communities in the Global South. Furthermore, it explores the untapped potential of wild genetic resources in bolstering food security. It aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, advocating for integrating Indigenous wisdom into urban development strategies. This book is a call to action, serving as a comprehensive scholarly examination that addresses the multifaceted challenges of climate change, health, and sustainability and champions a collective approach towards forging a sustainable and equitable future.