Whether or not the Anthropocene is officially accepted as Earth's new geological epoch, the phenomenon demands transformative human responses. In this book, one of the world's foremost scholars on institutions and governance unpacks the implications of the Anthropocene narrative for global-scale governance. A particular strength of the book is the integration of the scientific underpinning of the Anthropocene with both analytical and normative approaches to effective governance. This is a must-read for those interested in where on Earth our increasingly globalized society is going
Will Steffen, Australian National University
This remarkable book offers a sweeping overview of the challenges of global environmental governance that now confront humankind. Biermann has done a great job surveying the complex international landscape, and detailing his proposals for the comprehensive reform of multilateral environmental institutions.
James Meadowcroft, School of Public Policy, Carleton University
Drawing on insights from international relations theory, Frank Biermann's book contributes to a joint endeavor: the search for new ways to govern the Anthropocene. In taking this new epoch of planetary history seriously—that is, accepting that the fine line between humankind and nature is becoming increasingly blurred—this book is testimony to the fact that answers must be found beyond individual disciplines. Frank Biermann should be applauded for building a bridge between people interested in the earth system and people interested in governance.
Klaus Töpfer, Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies, Potsdam
… there is currently a massive gap between the reality of global environmental governance and the requirements identified by natural and social scientists who have taken the condition of the earth system seriously. Biermann has provided a thorough and credible program for starting to bridge that gap. Even those who do not share his prescriptions will have to grapple with the analysis that underpins them; Earth System Governance is now a clear and standard reference point, and as such should be required reading for all those who care about the condition of the earth system and its governance.
Perspectives on Politics
… Biermann's examinations of the analytical problems of earth system governance are excellent … Earth System Governance stands out as the most comprehensive, best integrated, and most advanced review of earth system governance research to date.
International Studies Review
… Frank Biermann's book is an imaginative must-read on the challenges of earth system governance–a book about a realistic utopianism. It conforms to all central criteria for a seminal academic work: It is theoretically interesting, empirically relevant, and up-to-date. And what is more, it is also a bibliophilic delight.
International Journal of Social Economics
