Eaarth

Eaarth is the term and the title of Bill McKibben’s 2010 book, Eaarth: Making a Life on a Tough New Planet. The spelling with an extra 'a' signals that human activity has transformed the planet beyond its historical conditions, creating a world that civilizations must learn to live in anew. The book, published by Blue Rider Press, argues that climate change has already reshaped Earth in ways that require a different approach to politics, economics, and daily life.

McKibben’s central idea is that Earth has entered a new geological and climatic era, characterized by more extreme weather, rising sea levels, disrupted ecosystems, and greater resource stress. The pace and scale of change outstrip many institutions' ability to adapt, necessitating a shift from reliance on fearsome projections alone to practical steps that emphasize resilience and localization.

Key themes include reducing dependence on fossil fuels, transitioning to renewable energy, and building local food systems and economies to withstand climate shocks. The author also advocates for rethinking policy and governance to prioritize stability, risk management, and care for the most vulnerable populations, with an emphasis on community-level action and decentralized solutions.

Impact and reception: The concept of Eaarth has influenced climate discourse by stressing that change is immediate and ongoing, prompting discussions about adaptation and local resilience. The book contributed to conversations on environmental policy and civic preparedness, though it has faced critique regarding its alarmist tone and prescriptive prescriptions.