Elizabeth Kolbert's updated work on climate change brings urgent warnings about the sixth extinction, previously addressed in her Pulitzer Prize-winning book, "The Sixth Extinction." Nearly ten years after its initial release, Kolbert reflects on how drastic climate-related changes have accelerated, underscoring the dire consequences of human actions on the planet.
Kolbert's original findings emphasized the impact humans have had on the environment, showcasing the alarming loss of biodiversity as resulting from climate change and human footprint. Now, as extreme weather events increasingly disrupt ecosystems, she reiterates the significance of her message, which remains ever relevant.
The updated edition delves deeply not only on past events of extinction but also on current crises impacting species such as the decline of pollinating insects. "The objective data is terrible. Our impact on the planet has become significantly more vast," Kolbert states, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
For Kolbert, the prospect of the sixth extinction is perilous. Each chapter recounts stories of species at risk, intertwining past and present to articulate humanity's destructive influence. Noteworthy examples range from the extinction of the Panamanian golden frog due to human-introduced fungi to the overhunting leading to the demise of the great auk. The book is fortified with rigorous scientific research, demonstrating the delicate balance of ecosystems and humanity's responsibility for disrupting this equilibrium.
Reflecting on ten years since her initial publication, Kolbert expresses her apprehensions, stating, "It is difficult to gauge where we are. We are certainly still in the early phases, not quite 'inside' the process. We might still be able to stop it." This statement carries heavy weight, especially considering the urgent data available now compared to a decade ago.
Climate Urgency
Her pressing concerns include the precarious state of pollinators and the ramifications their decline may hold for humanity. Kolbert warns against the unsustainable consequences of losing these creatures, integral to our food systems and ecosystems. She stresses, "If I had to bet on one species likely to survive, it would be ours. We are resourceful, numerous, widespread; yet this does not mean we can relax. The suffering we could experience may be immense, which weighs heavily on my mind."
The data suggests the climate is now at extremes not seen for millions of years, creating environments hostile to current forms of life. "We are bringing the planet out of the climatic regime we evolved in. A climate never seen for millions of years," Kolbert warns, illustrating the severity of our situation.
Kolbert's extensive knowledge stems from years spent illuminating climate issues for The New Yorker, where she has specialized in environmental writing since 1999. An alumna of Yale University and the University of Hamburg, Kolbert’s commitment has gained her recognition not only for her literary prowess but for her ability to communicate scientific issues pressing to our global society. Her book has maintained its status as a milestone reference for discussions on climate change and biodiversity.
Discussing the historical significance of past extinctions, Kolbert draws attention to the unique nature of the current extinction event—the first largely caused by one species. While reflecting on what history can teach us about survival, she cautions against complacency, noting how, historically, dominant species like the dinosaurs faced catastrophic ends. "There is no guarantee one group will survive," Kolbert elaborates, casting doubt on humanity's assumptions about resilience.
Awareness of Climate Change
Despite some recognition of climate change, denialism persists, particularly within the United States, as livelihoods and habits continue to depend on fossil fuel consumption. Kolbert observes, "Even I do not absolve myself. We are all participating, burning oil, coal, and gas. This must stop. But it is difficult to live modern life without being part of this grand project of atmospheric ruin." The necessity of change is pressing, yet societal resistance remains high.
Kolbert articulates how contemporary humans grapple with unprecedented changes, drawing parallels to past catastrophic events like volcanic eruptions—but unlike then, society may be stepping out of the climate regime it has known for centuries. What humanity faces now is much different from anything seen before.
She highlights one terrifying reality embedded within her research: the impact of humans on oceans and health of marine life, fundamental to the global ecosystem. She notes the impending dangers posed to this habitat if degradation persists unchallenged.
Kolbert is not overly optimistic about our capacity to adhere to climate agreements such as the ones set forth at the Paris Agreement. "Nobody believes it anymore—not those who have examined the data. Fundamentally, we should be zeroing out CO2 emissions today, as you and I speak. This won't happen anytime soon," she asserts starkly.
Transparency and recognition from societal leaders are necessary steps for change to begin. Kolbert’s work serves as both an urgent call to action and reflection on humanity's impact and moral duty toward Earth and its biodiversity. With hopeful acknowledgment, she notes, "Perhaps we can still stop this; the potential for change exists, but it requires unyielding action and commitment from all levels of society; otherwise, we risk devastating our world for future generations."
