World Environment Day is observed on June 5th every year and is an initiative by the United Nations to raise awareness, which is where books can come in handy. The day is to encourage action for the protection and preservation of the environment. It serves as a platform for individuals, communities, and organisations to come together and address environmental issues on a global scale.

Read more: International Mother Earth Day nonfiction books: 6 reads on climate crisis

Books for World Environment Day

In terms of nonfiction books that promote environmental awareness and sustainability, there are numerous titles that offer valuable insights and information. Here are some of the best nonfiction books related to the environment:

1. “Silent Spring” by Rachel Carson. Considered a classic in the environmental movement, Silent Spring explores the detrimental effects of pesticides on the environment. Not to mention, it raises awareness about the importance of conservation.
2. “The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History” by Elizabeth Kolbert. Not only does this book discusses the ongoing mass extinction of species and the human impact on biodiversity, it also highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts.
3. “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari. While not solely focused on the environment, this book provides a thought-provoking perspective on the human impact on the planet and how our actions shape the world around us.
4. “Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed” by Jared Diamond. This book examines the collapse of past civilizations due to environmental mismanagement and draws lessons for our present-day challenges.
5. “The Uninhabitable Earth: Life After Warming” by David Wallace-Wells. Exploring the consequences of climate change, this book presents a stark portrayal of the potential impacts on our planet and society.
6. “The Omnivore’s Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals” by Michael Pollan. This book explores the complex and interconnected relationships between food, agriculture, and the environment, raising awareness about sustainable food systems. Check out the review of Michael Pollan’s book In Defense of Food.
7. “Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things” by William McDonough and Michael Braungart. Offering insights into sustainable design and manufacturing, this book challenges the concept of waste and advocates for a circular economy.

Overall, these books provide a range of perspectives on environmental issues and can help deepen your understanding of the challenges we face and the potential solutions. We also spoke to Professor Tim Spector on his book Food for Life recently, where he talks about climate change, food poverty and security.