Albert Bates Books

Our oceans face levels of devastation previously unknown in human history--from pollution, from overfishing, and through damage to delicate aquatic ecosystems affected by global warming. Ocean biodiversity is being decimated on par with the fastest rates of rain forest destruction. More than 80 per cent of pollutants in the oceans come from sewage and other land-based runoff (some of it radioactive). The rest is created by waste dumped by commercial and recreational vessels. In many areas and for many fish stocks, there are no conservation or management measures existing or even planned. Climate author Albert Bates explains how ocean life maintains adequate oxygen levels, prevents erosion from storms, and sustains a vital food source that factory fishing operations cannot match--and why that should matter to all of us, whether we live near the ocean or not. He presents solutions for changing the human impact on marine reserves, improving ocean permaculture, and putting the brakes on the ocean heat waves that destroy sea life and imperil human habitation at the ocean's edge.

A primer on plastics for middle schoolers, with information on how plastics are made, what an enormous problem they are for the environment and what can be done to clean them up.

Conventional agriculture destroys our soils, pollutes our water and is a major contributor to climate change. What if our agricultural practices could stabilise, or even reverse these trends? This book explores the dual function of biochar as a carbon-negative energy source and a potent soil-builder.

The scourge of plastic has poisoned our environment and damaged our health. In this timely book, Albert Bates takes a critical look at this ubiquitous problem, offers creative solutions, and explores worldwide efforts to transform plastic pollution into a tool for social justice, profitable businesses, healthier people, and a healthier planet. It's packed with anecdotes and tips for living with less plastic, viable alternatives, and safe disposal of the plastic you have.

Pandemics cannot be eliminated, but they can be stopped; the trick is discovering what will curtail any one particular outbreak. Renowned environmentalist and science writer Albert Bates presents an easy-to-understand scientific explanation and overview of the global consequences of pandemics and offers a fresh perspective on how we can coexist with them, individually and collectively. Bates recounts the history of deadly pandemics and provides a basic explanation for why diseases can infect and spread quickly, as well as how viruses invade the body and travel from host to host, further illustrating why we are all at risk. He also reminds us that disrupting natural ecosystems increases the chances of letting loose even more viruses into global populations. Discover which methods have been used to battle infectious outbreaks in the past, which social solutions are the most effective, and how to bolster our resources before the next pandemic strikes.