This book argues that at a time when the world is facing environmental and social upheaval, the political establishment has been unwilling to listen and slow to act. This is reflected in a political system that has been incapable of rising to the challenge. Only by governments taking a radical and progressive lead in making changes – imposing them if necessary – can there be any hope of slowing, stopping and then reversing our global catastrophe. Governments hold the prime responsibility in the creation of a virtuous circle of positive action for the climate. Starting from a European perspective, a ten point manifesto explains how this can be done and how we can have hope for the future. The book is a call for action to European governments in the approach to COP26 and when plans for a European Green Deal are being discussed in the EU.

Disclaimer: The author of this publication is acting in his own name. The viewpoints he defends are in no way reflecting the opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee and of other EU institutions.