Curating 50 Good, Green Reads for a Sustainable Planet

1. Cradle to Cradle William McDonough, 2002 An industry-defying perspective on sustainable manufacturing, urging a shift from the traditional “cradle to grave” approach, making it essential for those in manufacturing to rethink their ecological impact.
2. Doughnut Economics Kate Raworth, 2017 Offering a radical economic paradigm, this book challenges conventional views on development, making it crucial for economists and policymakers seeking sustainable solutions for global challenges.
3. Drawdown 2017 Focused on solutions, Drawdown provides a comprehensive guide to reversing global warming, a must-read for environmentalists and policymakers striving for effective climate change mitigation.
4. Green Giants Freya Williams By exploring successful sustainable business models, Green Giants provides insights for business leaders, showcasing the profitability and impact of integrating sustainability into corporate strategies.
5. Green Swans John Elkington, 2020 As a guide to the future of regenerative capitalism, Green Swans is indispensable for business leaders navigating the challenges of sustainability, offering insights from the acclaimed “Godfather of Sustainability.”
6. Grow the Pie Alex Edmans, 2020 Demonstrating the profitability of socially responsible businesses, Grow the Pie is a valuable resource for corporate leaders looking to integrate purpose into their practices for long-term success.
7. How to Avoid a Climate Disaster Bill Gates, 2021 Bill Gates provides an engineer’s perspective on climate change, making this book essential for those in the technology and engineering fields seeking innovative solutions to address the climate crisis.
8. Material Value Julia L. F. Goldstein, 2019 Material Value serves as an indispensable reference for those in manufacturing, offering practical insights into sustainable and less wasteful production methods.
9. Our Next Evolution Laura Calandrella, 2020 For leadership professionals, Our Next Evolution delves into the challenges of implementing lasting change within organizations, offering unique perspectives from both a leadership strategist and conservation biologist.
10. Scale Geoffrey West, 2017 Exploring universal laws of growth, Scale is a thought-provoking read for sustainability professionals, connecting the principles of biology to the challenges faced by companies and cities.
11. Small is Beautiful E. F. Schumacher, 1973 Small Is Beautiful challenges conventional economic thinking, making it relevant for economists and policymakers advocating for sustainable alternatives and reduced consumption.
12. Sustainability: A History Jeremy L. Caradonna, 2014 From the 1600s to the present day, Sustainability: A History provides valuable context for professionals across disciplines, helping them understand the historical roots of the contemporary sustainability movement.
13. The Ecology of Commerce Paul Hawken, 1993 A visionary declaration of sustainability, The Ecology of Commerce appeals to business leaders and environmentalists alike, envisioning a restorative economy that balances ecological and commercial needs.
14. The Evolution of a Corporate Idealist Christine Bader, 2015 The Evolution of a Corporate Idealist offers insights into corporate responsibility, making it essential for CSR professionals and those pushing for sustainable practices within large corporations.
15. The Future We Choose Christina Figueres, Tom Rivett-Carnac, 2020 Leaders in climate negotiations and policy should read The Future We Choose, providing two scenarios for our planet’s future and proposing actionable steps to address the climate crisis.
16. The Grid Gretchen Bakke, 2016 An enlightening exploration of America’s power grid, The Grid is crucial for sustainability professionals in the energy sector, offering insights into its development, flaws, and challenges.
17. The Sixth Extinction Elizabeth Kolbert, 2014 Focused on man-made extinction threats, The Sixth Extinction is vital for those in environmental science, conservation, and policymaking, providing a sobering analysis of climate change impacts.
18. The Uninhabitable Earth David Wallace-Wells, 2019 A sobering look at the consequences of global warming, The Uninhabitable Earth is a rallying call for climate action, urging individuals and policymakers to address the urgent challenges posed by climate change.
19. The Upcycle William McDonough, Michael Braungart, 2013 A sequel to Cradle to Cradle, The Upcycle envisions an ecologically improved future, making it a must-read for those involved in sustainable design and environmental innovation.
20. There is No Planet B Mike Berners-Lee, 2019 Providing a comprehensive guide to climate action, There is No Planet B is indispensable for individuals and policymakers seeking practical solutions to address the urgent challenges of global warming.
21. Unstoppable Bill Nye Written by the renowned Science Guy, Unstoppable harnesses science for climate change solutions, making it an inspiring read for science enthusiasts, educators, and anyone passionate about changing the world.
22. Wisdom for a Livable Planet Various Contributors Wisdom for a Livable Planet presents environmental issues through the perspectives of visionaries, offering inspiration for individuals from all walks of life to join the fight for a sustainable planet.
23. Braiding Sweetgrass Robin Wall Kimmerer, 2013 Drawing on indigenous wisdom, Braiding Sweetgrass is a must-read for environmentalists, scientists, and policymakers seeking holistic perspectives on sustainability and the interconnectedness of nature and culture.
24. 101 Ways to Go Zero Waste Kathryn Kellogg, 2018 A practical guide to reducing waste, 101 Ways to Go Zero Waste is essential for individuals looking to adopt sustainable practices, making it an accessible resource for those seeking a low-impact lifestyle.
25. The Conscious Closet Elizabeth L. Cline, 2019 The Conscious Closet is a revolutionary guide for fashion enthusiasts, offering insights into sustainable and ethical clothing choices, making it a must-read for those seeking a more conscious approach to fashion.
26. The Waste-Free World Ron Gonen, 2021 The Waste-Free World is an essential read for individuals and policymakers, providing insights into the circular economy and how it can contribute to less wasteful production and consumption.
27. Wilding Isabella Tree, 2018 Wilding explores the return of nature to agriculture, making it essential for farmers, conservationists, and policymakers interested in regenerative farming practices and the coexistence of agriculture and nature.
28. The Story of Stuff Annie Leonard, 2010 A critical exploration of our obsession with consumerism, The Story of Stuff is essential for individuals seeking a deeper understanding of the environmental and social impact of our consumption habits.
29. Give a Sh*t Ashlee Piper, 2018 Give a Sh*t is a call to action for individuals to live a better, more environmentally conscious life, making it a motivational read for anyone seeking practical advice on sustainable living.
30. Third Culture Kids of the World Priyanka Surio, 2020 Third Culture Kids of the World provides valuable insights for educators, parents, and individuals navigating the challenges of a multicultural world, offering perspectives on identity and belonging.
31. Farming While Black Leah Penniman, 2018 Farming While Black is a practical guide for farmers and activists, offering insights into liberation on the land and sustainable farming practices, making it essential for those passionate about agricultural justice.
32. Net Positive Paul Polman, 2021 Net Positive is a transformative read for business leaders, advocating for companies to give more than they take, making it essential for those interested in aligning business success with positive social and environmental impact.
33. A Life on Our Planet David Attenborough, 2020 David Attenborough’s A Life on Our Planet is a must-read for nature enthusiasts and policymakers alike, providing a compelling narrative on the urgent need for environmental conservation and sustainable practices.
34. Plan B 4.0: Mobilizing To Save Civilization Lester R. Brown, 2009 Plan B 4.0 is an essential read for policymakers and environmentalists, providing a mobilization plan to address global challenges and save civilization from environmental degradation.
35. #futuregen: Lessons from a Small Country Jane Davidson, 2020 #futuregen is crucial for policymakers and educators, offering lessons from a small country on sustainable development and the intergenerational responsibility of shaping a positive future.
36. Climate Justice Mary Robinson, 2018 Climate Justice is a must-read for advocates and policymakers, providing insights into the fight for a sustainable future, human rights, and resilience in the face of climate challenges.
37. Limits to Growth Donella Meadows, 1972 A foundational work in environmental science, Limits to Growth is essential for policymakers and scientists, offering insights into the challenges and conditions that shape sustainable development.
38. Sustainability for the Rest of Us John Pabon, 2020 Sustainability for the Rest of Us provides a practical and accessible approach to saving the planet, making it an ideal read for individuals interested in sustainable living without overwhelming jargon.
39. Zero Waste Home Bea Johnson, 2013 Bea Johnson’s Zero Waste Home is a guide for individuals aspiring to reduce their environmental footprint, making it a valuable resource for those interested in adopting a zero-waste lifestyle.
40. Natural Capitalism Amory Lovins, 1999 Natural Capitalism is a seminal work for business leaders and policymakers, advocating for an economic model that values natural resources and sustainability, providing a blueprint for a regenerative economy.
41. Fashionopolis Dana Thomas, 2019 Fashionopolis is essential for those in the fashion industry, shedding light on the environmental impact of fast fashion and offering a vision for a more sustainable future in the world of clothing.
42. The Story of More Hope Jahren, 2020 Scientist Hope Jahren’s open letter on climate change is a powerful read for the general public, offering both scientific insights and personal reflections on the path to climate change and its consequences.
43. The Weather Makers by Tim Flannery, 2005
    Exploring the impact of human activity on the climate, The Weather Makers is a compelling read for those interested in understanding the science and consequences of climate change.
44. Alaska by James Michener, 1988
    A sweeping historical novel, Alaska by James Michener provides an epic exploration of the history and culture of Alaska, offering insights into the complex relationship between humans and the environment in this vast and rugged landscapes.
45. The End of Nature by Bill McKibben, 1989
    Published in 1989, The End of Nature is one of the first books to popularize the concept of global warming. McKibben warns of the dire consequences of unrestricted burning of fossil fuels, leading to an irreversible warming of the planet. The book played a crucial role in forming the environmental organization 350.org and galvanizing a global movement to fight climate change. (Kelly Mason, TheTutor)
46. A Sand County Almanac by Aldo Leopold, 1949
    Published in 1949, A Sand County Almanac is a classic of environmental literature. It consists of essays about Leopold’s experiences in the Wisconsin countryside and his observations of the beauty and fragility of nature. Credited with introducing the concept of a “land ethic,” it advocates treating the environment with the same respect and care as a human being. The book is often credited with shaping the modern environmental movement.
47. Let My People Go Surfing by Yvon Chouinard, 2005
    Yvon Chouinard’s Let My People Go Surfing is a business memoir and manifesto for responsible capitalism. It outlines Chouinard’s journey in building the outdoor clothing company Patagonia and advocates for sustainable and environmentally conscious business practices. (This book and the next 15 or so were suggested by Verineia Codrean, Startup Norway)
48. How to Spend a Trillion Dollars
    An exploration of the potential impact of large-scale financial investments, How to Spend a Trillion Dollars prompts readers to consider the ethical and sustainable deployment of significant financial resources.
49. Growth for Good by Alessio Terzi, 2021
    Alessio Terzi’s Growth for Good explores the intersection of economic growth and societal well-being, offering insights into how businesses can contribute positively to both financial prosperity and the common good.
50. Nature’s Fortune by Mark Tercek, 2013
    Mark Tercek’s Nature’s Fortune delves into the economic value of nature and argues for the inclusion of nature conservation in business and economic decision-making.

BONUS BOOKS

1. Speed & Scale by John Doerr, 2022
   This book discusses the urgency and magnitude required to address global challenges, emphasizing the need for rapid and widespread solutions.
2. All In: The Future of Business Leadership
   An exploration of the evolving role of business leaders in creating a positive impact, All In: The Future of Business Leadership provides insights into the changing landscape of corporate leadership.
3. Chief Sustainability Officers at Work by Chrissa Pagitsas, 2019
   Chrissa Pagitsas’ Chief Sustainability Officers at Work provides a behind-the-scenes look at the role of Chief Sustainability Officers, offering practical insights and perspectives on driving sustainability within organizations.
4. Saving Us by Katharine Hayhoe, 2022
   Saving Us by Katharine Hayhoe explores the intersection of climate science, faith, and humanity, offering a hopeful perspective on addressing the challenges of climate change.
5. Bewilderment by Richard Powers, 2021
   Richard Powers’ Bewilderment is a novel that weaves together environmental themes and explores the complex relationship between humans and the natural world.
6. How Bad Are Bananas? by Mike Berners-Lee, 2010
   How Bad Are Bananas? by Mike Berners-Lee is a guide that quantifies the carbon footprint of various activities, products, and choices, offering practical insights for reducing individual environmental impact.
7. Leverage Points: Places to Intervene in a System by Donella Meadows, 1999
   Donella Meadows’ Leverage Points provides a systems thinking perspective, identifying strategic points for intervention to create positive change in complex systems.
8. Prosperity Without Growth by Tim Jackson, 2009
   Tim Jackson’s Prosperity Without Growth challenges the conventional notion of continuous economic growth and explores alternative models for achieving prosperity within ecological limits.
9. Winners Take All by Anand Giridharadas, 2018
   Anand Giridharadas’ Winners Take All critiques the role of philanthropy and elite initiatives in addressing social issues, questioning the effectiveness of top-down approaches to societal challenges.
10. Confessions of a Recovering Environmentalist by Paul Kingsnorth, 2017
    Confessions of a Recovering Environmentalist by Paul Kingsnorth is a reflective exploration of environmental activism and personal convictions, offering insights into the complexities of advocating for sustainability.
11. The Ministry for the Future
    The Ministry for the Future is a speculative fiction novel by Kim Stanley Robinson that explores the potential future scenarios and challenges of climate change mitigation.
12. Banker to the Poor by Muhammad Yunus, 1997
    Muhammad Yunus’ Banker to the Poor narrates the story of Yunus’ journey in founding the Grameen Bank and pioneering microfinance, emphasizing financial inclusion and poverty alleviation.
13. What Works by Iris Bohnet, 2016
    Iris Bohnet’s What Works delves into behavioral design and interventions aimed at addressing gender inequality, providing evidence-based strategies for promoting diversity and inclusion.
14. Hot, Flat & Crowded by Thomas L. Friedman
    Hot, Flat & Crowded by Thomas L. Friedman explores the interconnections between climate change, globalization, and the need for sustainable solutions in a world facing environmental challenges.
15. Flourishing: A Frank Conversation about Sustainability
    Flourishing: A Frank Conversation about Sustainability offers a candid exploration of sustainability, discussing challenges and opportunities for creating a flourishing and regenerative future.
16. Sustainability by Design by John Ehrenfeld, 2008
    John Ehrenfeld’s Sustainability by Design explores the concept of sustainability from a design perspective, offering insights into integrating sustainable practices into the core of product and system design.
17. The Overstory by Richard Powers, 2018
    The Overstory by Richard Powers is a novel that weaves together the stories of individuals connected by their deep relationships with trees, exploring themes of environmentalism, activism, and the interconnectedness.
18. The Eco Bible by Yonatan Neril, Leo Dee, 2020 Eco Bible is your guide to creating a more sustainable life in pursuit of recreating paradise here on earth.