Author(s): Steve Lancaster

Science

Green Australia: A Snapshot examines the ways in which Australians are attempting to reduce their ecological footprint both at home and at work. In 2009, the CO2 Energy Emissions Index found that Australia had overtaken the USA to become the largest per capita emitter of greenhouse gases in the world - a legacy of dependence on coal-fired power stations, the widespread adoption of conventional farming techniques, heavy reliance on vehicles powered by fossil fuel, 'dirty' industrial practices and a growing mountain of waste. Yet, in recent years, there has been a growing awareness that climate change is beginning to bite, the recent drought and devastating floods suggesting that more extreme weather patterns are likely unless significant steps are taken to combat global warming. Using case studies and up-to-date research, this book demonstrates that, although much more needs to be done if Australia is to secure a carbon-neutral future, some Green shoots are beginning to emerge.