In her final chapter, Jahren touches on the topic of engineering solutions to sequester carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Like most scientists, the author is deeply skeptical about engineering proposals that offer a fast fix to a centuries-old, global problem. Engineering solutions are “incredibly risky” because they attempt to alter natural processes without knowledge of the outcomes. In other words, they could make the problem worse or create wholly new, unforeseen environmental issues. Nor is Jahren convinced by the campaigns to plant more trees and greenery, which will take centuries to achieve results.

Instead, Jahren encourages her readers to “Use Less” and “Share More.” Flying less, eating less meat, using less electricity, and purchasing fewer items will not reduce our quality of life, she argues. In fact, happiness levels often decrease with an increase in consumer products. The choice of a happy life, she argues, is up to us, and it does not begin at the shopping mall.

I. The Action You Take

In this section, Jahren offers some short steps to reduce the individual’s climate footprint: 1) Examine your values; 2) Gather information; 3) Strive to make your personal activities consistent with your values; 4) Strive to make your personal investments consistent with your values; and 5) Strive to move your institutions toward consistency with your values.