6+ Favorite Books on Conservation and Economics (So Far!)

Here is a roundup of my favorite books on conservation and economics (so far!). I hope you find something interesting & a little different.

The Soil Will Save Us by Kristin Ohlson
$17.21

In The Soil Will Save Us, Kristin Ohlson takes a closer look at soil health and its vital role in tackling climate change. She travels the globe, showcasing innovative practices from farmers and scientists that highlight how improving our soil can help reduce atmospheric carbon. I appreciated the book's focus on an often-overlooked topic, making it relevant for everyone from consumers to gardeners. However, I felt it missed the mark by not exploring the complexities behind current farming practices, leaning too heavily on assumptions about farmers’ motivations. Overall, it’s an eye-opening read with some room for deeper analysis.
Pros:
The book explores an important and overlooked topic.
It highlights best practices in soil science and sustainable agriculture.
It offers hope for solving major environmental issues through simple solutions.
Cons:
The book lacks depth in discussing the underlying reasons for current farming practices.
Buy Now Read My Review

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!

01/27/2026 11:02 am GMT
The Enduring Wilderness by Doug Scott
$8.07

The Enduring Wilderness by Doug Scott is one of the most eye-opening and useful books that I've read. It was recommended to me by Brad Borst, the President of Wilderness Land Trust, one of the most effective non-profits in America IMHO. This book is slightly academic, but details the grassroots, political, and legal strategies behind America's Wilderness Act - a world-changing first in the world just like our idea for National Parks. Amazing read, and highly recommended for anyone looking to get involved in the conservation movement. It gave me a small idea of what consistent, dedicated individuals can do over the course of their lifetimes. The book emphasizes that simply labeling an area as wilderness isn’t enough for true preservation; we need to understand and manage wilderness values. I found this book to be incredibly enlightening and practical, shedding light on the political and grassroots efforts behind significant conservation achievements. It’s slightly academic but worth the read for anyone interested in conservation.
Pros:
The book is eye-opening and useful.
It details the grassroots, political, and legal strategies behind the Wilderness Act.
Highly recommended for those interested in conservation.
Cons:
The topic is very dense and specific.
Buy Now Read My Review

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!

01/27/2026 06:03 am GMT
Sand County Almanac by Aldo Leopold
$31.90

In Sand County Almanac, Aldo Leopold explores the relationship between humans and the environment, a topic that still feels incredibly relevant today. The review emphasizes how, despite tremendous progress in environmental ethics since the book's publication nearly 70 years ago, we still grapple with complex issues like pollution and land use. It’s inspiring to see how much has changed, yet disheartening that many challenges persist. The writing is engaging and lyrical, making it an enjoyable read. I wholeheartedly recommend it, especially alongside other works that provide context to Leopold's ideas.
Pros:
The book has had a significant impact on environmental thinking in America.
It feels incredibly current despite being nearly 70 years old.
It's lyrical, beautiful, and fun to read.
It provides insight into historical environmental movements and changes.
The book encourages ownership and responsibility towards land and the environment.
Cons:
There are no cons.
Buy Now Read My Review

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!

01/27/2026 01:01 pm GMT
The Overstory by Richard Powers
$7.46

In Richard Powers' novel, The Overstory, the focus is on the deep connection between humans and trees, following the lives of nine Americans as they come together to combat deforestation. The book raises important questions about our tendency to prioritize growth over preservation, highlighting flaws in human nature. I loved Powers' beautiful, lyrical writing, which brings trees to life as unique characters. However, I found the multitude of characters and their intertwined stories a bit overwhelming, and it took a while for the plot to truly engage me. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read with a powerful message about environmentalism.
Pros:
Lovely, lyrical writing.
Engaging exploration of human-tree relationships.
Thought-provoking themes on deforestation and environmentalism.
Cons:
Too many characters and overlapping stories.
Takes a long time to get going.
Buy Now Read My Review

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!

01/27/2026 05:03 am GMT
Silent Spring Revolution by Douglas Brinkley
$20.99

In Silent Spring Revolution, Douglas Brinkley explores the surge of environmental activism from 1960 to 1973, spotlighting key figures like Rachel Carson and political leaders including JFK, Johnson, and Nixon. I found the book incredibly insightful, showcasing how the era’s struggles laid the groundwork for today’s environmental issues. Brinkley connects past events to our current challenges, making it feel relevant and urgent. The detailed accounts of significant events and the mechanics of environmental politics really struck me. Honestly, I loved everything about it—it's a dense read, but so engaging that I couldn't put it down.
Pros:
Meticulously researched and well-written chronicle of environmental activism
Highlights significant historical figures and events
Offers relevant insights into contemporary political issues
Provides context for the lived experiences of Americans in the 1950s and 1960s
Explores the mechanics of environmental politics and coalition building
Emphasizes America's dual role in environmental damage and leadership
Cons:
Nothing!
Buy Now Read My Review

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!

01/27/2026 05:01 pm GMT
Windfall by McKenzie Funk
$14.43

In Windfall, McKenzie Funk dives into how businesses and entrepreneurs are cashing in on the impacts of global warming. He travels the world, breaking down the crisis into three categories: Melt, Drought, and Deluge. Each section explores different opportunities arising from climate change, like shipping routes in melting ice and mineral access in Greenland. I found it a fascinating read, highlighting the harsh reality that profit can come from disaster. While it can be a bit bleak, the insights are compelling and make it a strong book overall.
Pros:
Gripping account of global warming's economic opportunities
Well-researched with insights from multiple continents
Fascinating exploration of the intersection between climate change and profit
Cons:
A bit depressing
Buy Now Read My Review

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!

01/27/2026 05:03 am GMT
How The World Really Works by Vaclav Smil
$14.99

In How The World Really Works, Vaclav Smil explores the essential role of energy conversion in shaping our modern lives. I found this book to be a real eye-opener, emphasizing how our world relies on four key materials: cement, steel, plastics, and ammonia, all made possible by cheap hydrocarbon energy. Smil’s straightforward approach is refreshing, cutting through the political noise surrounding energy to present clear facts and statistics. While I wished for more examples of future innovations, the book’s academic tone and realism made it a compelling read. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking look at our energy-driven existence.
Pros:
The book is concise and to the point.
It is packed with statistics and explanations of complex topics.
The author presents facts and evidence in a realistic manner.
Cons:
A few bits of academic jargon were present.
I wish there were examples of future outcomes provided.
I would have liked to see more about human creativity in problem-solving.
Buy Now Read My Review

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!

01/27/2026 06:03 am GMT