Ecosocialism

Change the system, not the climate.

An accessible introduction to the idea of ecosocialism. Makes clear that capitalism cannot be made environmentally friendly, nor can leftist/neoliberal governments who are backing corporations/capitalism, no matter how many green washing initiatives are advertised, an obvious conclusion given decades of international environmental conferences without seeing meaningful reduction in carbon emissions, etc. Explains the socialist experiments of the 20th century failing for specific reasons, mistakes that do not have to be repeated, as well as the ways the original idea of socialism should be upgraded for modern sensibilities. Clarifies how the conjoining of eco- with -socialism allows for the best path forward to ensure both global justice and environmental recovery. Heavy emphasis on solidarity, acknowledging where indigenous and labour movements have made some progress against corporations which sought to harm and harvest, i.e. the Amazon rainforest, while acknowledging the obstacles, the work needed on the ground to remake government and society in such a way, and the need for more detailed plans. I am glad that the author never missed a chance to remind the reader that working toward this vision should not stop the attempts to get certain environmental initiatives happening ASAP, even within the existing governmental framework, as time is growing short in respect to the effects of global warming. A collection of essays, with an appendix of manifesto and declarations, this lays the groundwork that lets me understand the importance and the goals, and empowers me to do futher research, investigate avenues of action in support of ecosocialism, because the case made here is a strong and convincing one. If I have one complaint it's that the same ground appears to be covered multiple times in a short space, but insofar as that increases the chances of any reader absorbing the salient points, I can't blame Löwy for that approach.