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How Trees Can Save the World

The crucial role of ancient forests in climate resilience

Peter Wohlleben author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:HarperCollins Publishers

Published:28th Mar '24

Should be back in stock very soon

How Trees Can Save the World cover

This book highlights how ancient forests adapt to climate change, emphasizing the need for protection and understanding their ecosystems for a sustainable future.

In How Trees Can Save the World, the internationally bestselling author Peter Wohlleben presents a compelling argument for the critical role of ancient forests in combating climate change. Drawing on his extensive research, he illustrates how these ecosystems adapt to environmental challenges by passing down their wisdom through generations. Wohlleben critiques current forestry management practices and emphasizes the importance of protecting old-growth forests, which he argues are essential for our planet's survival.

Wohlleben's previous work, The Hidden Life of Trees, introduced readers to the intricate social networks of trees, and in this new book, he expands on that foundation. He warns against the misconception that mass tree planting can easily replace the ecological value of mature forests. Instead, he emphasizes that forests are complex ecosystems comprised of various species, including animals, fungi, and bacteria. The author argues that allowing these forests to heal themselves is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and resilience against climate change.

With his signature warmth and insightful storytelling, Wohlleben shares groundbreaking scientific research that reveals how forests influence local and global climates. He passionately advocates for a shift in perspective, urging readers to trust in the natural abilities of ancient forests to adapt and thrive. Ultimately, How Trees Can Save the World serves as a vital reminder of the interconnectedness of life and the urgent need to protect our planet's most ancient guardians.

'If we don’t learn to leave the trees alone, the trees will eventually be alone anyway—but without us. Wohlleben brilliantly and readably shows us how urgent and how hard it is to do nothing.' Guardian

'In clear, vivid prose and with impeccable reasoning, Peter Wohlleben makes a compelling case that almost everything we do in modern forestry management may be dead wrong. What should we do instead? Let the wisdom of the trees quell our human arrogance, heal the forest, and restore our sweet, green world.' Sy Montgomery, author of Soul of an Octopus and How to Be A Good Creature

'Trees, says Peter Wohlleben, have wisdom. So does he. In this magisterial take on how forests can save the planet from our worst endeavours, the German forester warns us against the hubris of tree planting. For their forest wisdom is greater than ours. Planting is usually bad, a "giant PR operation". Instead, he says, the world needs the quiet magic of natural forest restoration. We are, at best, stewards of the world's forests. We must stand back and let them grow.' Fred Pearce, author of A Trillion Trees: Restoring Our Forests by Trusting in Nature

'The Power of Trees sends a powerful message that humankind will not survive unless we revolutionize the way we conserve and manage our planet's dwindling forests. Through eye-opening stories, Wohlleben underscores how trees and the biodiversity of the natural world present us with critically important solutions to the climate crisis. [It is an important wakeup call for individuals and large-scale forest managers alike!]' Jeffrey Horowitz, founder of Avoided Deforestation Partners and founding trustee of the Jane Goodall Legacy Foundation

ISBN: 9780008447243

Dimensions: 198mm x 129mm x 27mm

Weight: 280g

272 pages