Our only home A climate appeal to the world

In their previous collaboration, An Appeal to the World (2017), the Dalai Lama and Alt sought to outline inner and outer paths to peace. Here, as our world continues to experience tumultuous changes, they address issues pertaining to the environment and global warming. "Is this book reason for alarmism? No way!" writes Alt early on, "It is a declaration of love to the future." Through dialogue, which fills the body of this sanguine book, Alt poses questions on the state of the world's environmental crisis that the Dalai Lama answers with boundless wisdom. "We need a revolution of compassion," he states. "Environmental education must be given top priority," he continues. And most contemplatively, "Today's environmental crisis is the crisis of our inner world." The Dalai Lama takes measure of the depth of awareness and commitment humankind must embrace to tackle climate change while expressing gratitude for young leaders like Greta Thunberg. With optimism at the core, this is a bright and encouraging environmental primer.

The Dalai Lama and Franz Alt collaborate again after 2017's An Appeal to the World, this time with a focus on climate change. This slim volume is written in support of young climate activists and intended to urge politicians to address the immediacy of global warming. To the Dalai Lama, environmental issues are beyond any one religious or political affiliation, and it is humankind's ethical responsibility to make the necessary changes to ensure our survival. The first two sections are written by Alt, giving a wide view of climate change and global activism efforts. The third section presents the Dalai Lama's support of environmental issues. After lengthy interviews between the two authors regarding the ethics of caring for the environment, a poem by the Dalai Lama is presented. In conversation, the authors also reflect on topics including the 2106 Paris Agreement and the concept of universal responsibility. Further reflections by Alt conclude the book, and action points for individuals and governments are included. VERDICT This impassioned account is ideal for readers well versed in current climate change activism, especially efforts spearheaded by Greta Thunberg. Relevant for collections with a concentration on environmental issues, otherwise optional.--Anitra Gates, Erie Cty. P.L., PA