Policy Press

Too Hot to Handle?

The Democratic Challenge of Climate Change

By Rebecca Willis

Published

Mar 25, 2020

Page count

162 pages

ISBN

978-1529206029

Dimensions

203 x 127 mm

Imprint

Bristol University Press

Published

Mar 25, 2020

Page count

162 pages

ISBN

978-1529206043

Dimensions

Imprint

Bristol University Press

Published

Mar 25, 2020

Page count

162 pages

ISBN

978-1529206043

Dimensions

Imprint

Bristol University Press
Too Hot to Handle?

Scientists are clear that urgent action is needed on climate change, and world leaders agree. Yet climate issues barely trouble domestic politics. This book explores a central dilemma of the climate crisis: science demands urgency; politics turns the other cheek. Is it possible to hope for a democratic solution to climate change?

Based on interviews with leading politicians and activists, and the author’s twenty years on the frontline of climate politics, this book explores why climate is such a challenge for political systems, even when policy solutions exist. It argues that more democracy, not less, is needed to tackle the climate crisis, and suggests practical ways forward.

Rebecca Willis is an Professor in Practice at Lancaster University. She is an Expert Lead on for Climate Assembly UK and was a respondent in the Channel Four Leaders’ Debate on Climate in November 2019. Media appearances include BBC Radio Four's Today Programme, the One O’Clock News, Radio 5 Live, The Guardian, New Scientist and more.

Introduction: Democracy on hold?

A minute to midnight: Governing the planet

The energy elephant

Dual realities: Living with the climate crisis

20 years of climate action, but emissions are still rising

More, and better, democracy

A strategy for the climate emergency

The personal is political: How to be a good climate citizen