Wednesday 25 November 2009

Latest book on Climate change in Africa

Africa has contributed very little to global warming. But reliance on agriculture, land and natural resources, as well as high levels of poverty and poor governance has made Africa particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. At the same time, "the interests and perspectives of African nations and their peoples are rarely taken into account when global leaders get around the table," observes Camilla Toulmin, which is of particular concern in the run up to the UN climate change conference in Copenhagen.

Climate change in Africa begins by outlining what scientists are predicting the impacts of climate change will be. Using case studies, the book analyses how global warming will affect water availability, food systems, forests, cities and conflict and addresses what Africa might lose or gain from a low-carbon economy. Finally, Toulmin looks towards the future challenges posed by climate change and the scale of the response required.