Books to Inspire Environmental Action: Celebrating Earth Day with Luath Press

As Earth Day approaches, it's a timely reminder of the importance of cherishing and protecting our planet. Earth Day serves as an annual reminder of the need for environmental consciousness and action, inviting us to reflect on our relationship with nature and consider the ways in which we can contribute to a healthier, more sustainable world.

In the spirit of Earth Day, let's explore a selection of books from Luath Press. These books offer valuable insights and perspectives on our planet and the urgent need for environmental stewardship.

Activism for Life by Angie Zelter

As we celebrate Earth Day and reflect on our collective responsibility to protect our planet, there's no better time to delve into the remarkable life and insights of Angie Zelter, a tireless activist who has dedicated over four decades to advocating for a greener, fairer, and safer world. In her book Activism for Life, Zelter shares a deeply personal account of her experiences and the lessons she has learned from her campaigns across many countries.

Zelter's narrative is not just a chronicle of activism but a heartfelt and clear testimony to the power of grassroots mobilization and sustainable action. She provides invaluable insights into what it takes to organize effective campaigns while maintaining a commitment to long-term sustainability. From navigating security challenges to facing police and courts, Zelter offers practical advice gleaned from her years of hands-on experience.

Zelter's book is a testament to the power of individual action in the face of daunting challenges. Through her stories and reflections, she inspires readers to believe that change is possible and that each of us has a role to play in shaping a better future for our planet. As we confront the urgent threats of climate change and environmental degradation, Activism for Life serves as a beacon of hope and a guidebook for sustainable activism.

On this Earth Day, let us draw inspiration from Angie Zelter's unwavering commitment to environmental justice and take action to protect the planet for future generations. As Zelter reminds us, the time to act is now, and our collective future depends on it.


Revolution by Todd Westbrook

We must reflect on our environmental impact and consider innovative solutions to combat climate change. In his insightful book, Revolution, seasoned journalist Todd Westbrook takes readers on a captivating journey through the evolution of Scottish wind power—a journey that holds immense potential to revolutionize global power production.

For over a decade and a half, Westbrook has been a dedicated voice in the discourse surrounding renewable energy, and in Revolution, he distils his wealth of knowledge into a comprehensive exploration of Scotland's wind power industry.

Amid a climate emergency, the urgency for action has never been greater. Revolution serves as a rallying cry for change, reminding us of the critical role that wind power—and renewable energy more broadly—can play in mitigating the impacts of climate change.

As we celebrate Earth Day, let Revolution serve as a reminder of our collective responsibility to protect the planet and pave the way for a sustainable future. By harnessing the power of wind—and other renewable resources—we can chart a course towards a greener, fairer and more resilient world. The time for action is now, and Revolution provides us with the inspiration and guidance we need to rise to the challenge.


The 15 Minute City by Natalie Whittle

In 15-Minute City, Natalie Whittle presents a compelling vision for urban living—one that promises to transform the way we inhabit and interact with our urban environments.

Cities are the beating heart of modern civilization, shaping the rhythm of our daily lives and defining our experiences. But what if we could reimagine the structure of our cities? What if we could design urban spaces where everything we need is within easy reach, reducing the need for long commutes and reliance on carbon-intensive transportation?

Whittle's exploration of the 15-minute city concept challenges us to rethink traditional urban planning paradigms. At its core, the 15-minute city is about accessibility—creating neighbourhoods where essential amenities are all within a short walk or bike ride away. By decentralizing resources and services, the 15-minute city not only promotes convenience but also reduces carbon emissions, traffic congestion and air pollution.

Whittle's book serves as a timely reminder of the interconnectedness between urban design, environmental sustainability and quality of life. By examining historical precedents and modern case studies, she demonstrates how the 15-minute city model can revolutionize modern living and pave the way for a more resilient, equitable, and environmentally conscious society.

As we celebrate Earth Day, let us heed the call to embrace the 15-minute city model and work towards creating vibrant, livable urban spaces that prioritize people and the planet. By fostering communities where sustainability and accessibility go hand in hand, we can build a brighter future for generations to come.


Happy reading this Earth Day!

Amy Turnbull