A Footscray writer is helping prepare people for life in a world of climate change.
Former environment editor of The Conversation, Jane Rawson (pictured), has joined with James Whitmore – her replacement in the role – to co-write The Handbook: Surviving and Living with Climate Change.
The award-winning author notes that urban dwellers may feel safe from some of the effects of climate change, such as bushfires and severe frosts, but the problem will still impact dramatically on urban communities.
She points out the likelihood of increased pressure on water and electricity supplies, disruptions to food supplies, rising sea levels and the risk to life of longer, hotter heatwaves.
“There are definitely some unknowns about the effects climate change will have, but we do know one of the most severe effects will be an increase in heatwaves,” Rawson said.
“They already kill more people than fire and flood.”
The guide aims to provide practical advice on how people can begin to adapt now and prepare for the physical, mental and emotional challenges associated with climate change.
The handbook discusses ways to provide your own food, power and water, ideas on how you can still get around, and new ways to think about home and possessions.
“We feel while governments have put a little bit of work into reducing emissions, we don’t think there is a lot of adaptation work in this country.”
Rawson makes it clear the book is not a survivalist’s guide to “hiding away in a bunker” as the world burns around you.
“It’s about how to build stronger communities. Forming good links with people is going to be the way to deal with this.”
The Handbook: Surviving and Living with Climate Change is available at bookshops or via www.survivingclimatechange.net. It will be launched at 6pm on Tuesday, September 15, at Readings Carlton. RSVP: info@transitlounge.com.au
