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Environmentalism from Below: How Global People's Movements Are Leading the Fight for Our Planet
A global account of the grassroots environmental movements on the frontlines of the climate crisis.
Environmentalism from Below takes readers inside the popular struggles for environmental liberation in the Global South. These communities—among the most vulnerable to but also least responsible for the climate crisis—have long been at the forefront of the fight to protect imperiled worlds. Today, as the world’s forests burn and our oceans acidify, grassroots movements are tenaciously defending the environmental commons and forging just and sustainable ways of living on Earth.
Scholar and activist Ashley Dawson constructs a gripping narrative of these movements of climate insurgents, from international solidarity organizations like La Via Campesina and Shack Dwellers International to local struggles in South Africa, Colombia, India, Nigeria, and beyond. Taking up the four critical challenges we face in a warming world—food, urban sustainability, energy transition, and conservation—Dawson shows how the unruly power of environmentalism from below is charting an alternative path forward, from challenging industrial agriculture through fights for food sovereignty and agroecology to resisting extractivism using mass nonviolent protest and sabotage.
An urgent, essential intervention, Environmentalism from Below offers a hopeful alternative to the gridlock of UN-based climate negotiations and the narrow nationalism of some Green New Deal efforts. As Dawson reminds us, the fight against ecocide is already being waged worldwide. Building on longstanding traditions of anticolonial struggle, environmentalism from below is a model for a people’s movement for climate justice—one that demands solidarity.
Environmentalism from Below takes readers inside the popular struggles for environmental liberation in the Global South. These communities—among the most vulnerable to but also least responsible for the climate crisis—have long been at the forefront of the fight to protect imperiled worlds. Today, as the world’s forests burn and our oceans acidify, grassroots movements are tenaciously defending the environmental commons and forging just and sustainable ways of living on Earth.
Scholar and activist Ashley Dawson constructs a gripping narrative of these movements of climate insurgents, from international solidarity organizations like La Via Campesina and Shack Dwellers International to local struggles in South Africa, Colombia, India, Nigeria, and beyond. Taking up the four critical challenges we face in a warming world—food, urban sustainability, energy transition, and conservation—Dawson shows how the unruly power of environmentalism from below is charting an alternative path forward, from challenging industrial agriculture through fights for food sovereignty and agroecology to resisting extractivism using mass nonviolent protest and sabotage.
An urgent, essential intervention, Environmentalism from Below offers a hopeful alternative to the gridlock of UN-based climate negotiations and the narrow nationalism of some Green New Deal efforts. As Dawson reminds us, the fight against ecocide is already being waged worldwide. Building on longstanding traditions of anticolonial struggle, environmentalism from below is a model for a people’s movement for climate justice—one that demands solidarity.
336 pages, Paperback
Published January 16, 2024
4 people are currently reading
489 people want to read
About the author
Ashley Dawson
65 books25 followersAshley Dawson is a professor of English at CUNY, New York City. He is the author of Extinction, Mongrel Nation and The Routledge Concise History of Twentieth-Century British Literature, as well as a short story in the anthology Staten Island Noir.
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
July 26, 2023
speed-read this one for a blurb. here's what I sent:
"Though debates rage on the climate left about what language or strategy ought to be taken in order to confront the climate crisis, those involved in such conversations frequently seem to have their minds in the clouds and no grounded connection to existing class struggles. Dawson stands these critics on their head by foregrounding the wildly diverse, actually-existing, and ineluctably global people's movements for climate justice. In these scattered movements of urban squatters, migrants, industrial workers, peasant farmers, feminists, and Indigenous nations, one finds more comprehensive strategies for confronting imperialism and capitalism--which are the roots of environmental crises. Environmentalism From Below is a readable and practical guide to building ecological counterpower."
additionally, i'll say this book strikes me as very well suited for global environmental politics / environmental justice courses - I'll certainly be using it as soon as it's out!
"Though debates rage on the climate left about what language or strategy ought to be taken in order to confront the climate crisis, those involved in such conversations frequently seem to have their minds in the clouds and no grounded connection to existing class struggles. Dawson stands these critics on their head by foregrounding the wildly diverse, actually-existing, and ineluctably global people's movements for climate justice. In these scattered movements of urban squatters, migrants, industrial workers, peasant farmers, feminists, and Indigenous nations, one finds more comprehensive strategies for confronting imperialism and capitalism--which are the roots of environmental crises. Environmentalism From Below is a readable and practical guide to building ecological counterpower."
additionally, i'll say this book strikes me as very well suited for global environmental politics / environmental justice courses - I'll certainly be using it as soon as it's out!
April 8, 2024
Good book on climate change environmentalism from a decolonial perspective. Challenges a lot of popular neocolonial theories that result in death and further climate destruction.
Note the book is only 230 pages, including two appendixes. The rest is bibliography and an index. Also this book is incredibly dense and it took me sometimes two hours to read a chapter only 40 pages long.
Must read if you are in the climate movement or in a field related to climate in any capacity.
Note the book is only 230 pages, including two appendixes. The rest is bibliography and an index. Also this book is incredibly dense and it took me sometimes two hours to read a chapter only 40 pages long.
Must read if you are in the climate movement or in a field related to climate in any capacity.
December 17, 2024
A little buzzword-heavy but overall interesting. Good sections on food systems and urbanization
July 20, 2024
Ashley Dawson's "Environmentalism from Below" offers a profound exploration into the pivotal role of grassroots movements in the contemporary environmental movement. In this compelling work, Dawson delves deeply into the diverse and dynamic efforts of people worldwide who are spearheading initiatives to combat environmental degradation and climate change from the ground up.
Central to Dawson's narrative are vivid case studies that span the globe, illustrating how communities are mobilizing to address a wide array of environmental challenges, from pollution and resource depletion to the impacts of climate change. By examining these local struggles, Dawson demonstrates how they serve as crucial counterforces to the often inadequate or misguided policies of governments and corporations.
One of the book's standout features is its emphasis on environmental justice and the intersectionality of environmental issues. Dawson eloquently argues that effective environmentalism cannot be divorced from social justice concerns, highlighting how marginalized communities, indigenous groups, and people of color are disproportionately affected by environmental harm and are leading efforts for sustainable change.
Moreover, "Environmentalism from Below" critically examines the limitations of mainstream environmentalism, which often overlooks or sidelines grassroots initiatives in favor of top-down approaches. Dawson challenges readers to rethink traditional environmental narratives and recognize the transformative potential of community-based movements that prioritize inclusivity, equity, and democratic decision-making.
Dawson's writing is both engaging and thought-provoking, weaving together theoretical insights with compelling real-world examples to provide a comprehensive overview of the global environmental landscape. His passion for environmental justice and his commitment to amplifying the voices of local activists shine through, inspiring readers to consider their own roles in supporting and fostering grassroots movements.
While celebrating the achievements of grassroots environmentalism, Dawson does not shy away from addressing the formidable challenges these movements face, including systemic inequalities, political resistance, and corporate power. By acknowledging these barriers, the book encourages readers to confront the structural roots of environmental degradation and advocate for more just and sustainable futures.
Overall, "Environmentalism from Below" is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the multifaceted dimensions of contemporary environmental activism. Dawson's compelling exploration of grassroots movements offers a refreshing perspective that empowers readers to recognize and support the transformative potential of local action in the global fight for our planet's future.
Central to Dawson's narrative are vivid case studies that span the globe, illustrating how communities are mobilizing to address a wide array of environmental challenges, from pollution and resource depletion to the impacts of climate change. By examining these local struggles, Dawson demonstrates how they serve as crucial counterforces to the often inadequate or misguided policies of governments and corporations.
One of the book's standout features is its emphasis on environmental justice and the intersectionality of environmental issues. Dawson eloquently argues that effective environmentalism cannot be divorced from social justice concerns, highlighting how marginalized communities, indigenous groups, and people of color are disproportionately affected by environmental harm and are leading efforts for sustainable change.
Moreover, "Environmentalism from Below" critically examines the limitations of mainstream environmentalism, which often overlooks or sidelines grassroots initiatives in favor of top-down approaches. Dawson challenges readers to rethink traditional environmental narratives and recognize the transformative potential of community-based movements that prioritize inclusivity, equity, and democratic decision-making.
Dawson's writing is both engaging and thought-provoking, weaving together theoretical insights with compelling real-world examples to provide a comprehensive overview of the global environmental landscape. His passion for environmental justice and his commitment to amplifying the voices of local activists shine through, inspiring readers to consider their own roles in supporting and fostering grassroots movements.
While celebrating the achievements of grassroots environmentalism, Dawson does not shy away from addressing the formidable challenges these movements face, including systemic inequalities, political resistance, and corporate power. By acknowledging these barriers, the book encourages readers to confront the structural roots of environmental degradation and advocate for more just and sustainable futures.
Overall, "Environmentalism from Below" is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the multifaceted dimensions of contemporary environmental activism. Dawson's compelling exploration of grassroots movements offers a refreshing perspective that empowers readers to recognize and support the transformative potential of local action in the global fight for our planet's future.
January 23, 2024
In "Environmentalism from Below," Ashley Dawson masterfully articulates the urgent need for a grassroots approach to environmental activism. The book delves deep into the heart of environmental struggles, showcasing how marginalized communities are often the most impacted by ecological crises yet are frequently overlooked in mainstream environmental discourse.
Dawson's compelling narrative weaves together a tapestry of case studies and personal stories, illustrating how 'bottom-up' environmentalism isn't just a choice but a necessity for sustainable change. The book brilliantly argues that the solutions to our environmental crises lie not in top-down policies alone, but in empowering local communities to champion their causes.
What sets this book apart is its focus on intersectionality. Dawson emphasizes how environmental issues are intrinsically linked with social, economic, and political factors, making a strong case for an integrated approach to solving these complex challenges.
Reading "Environmentalism from Below" was both enlightening and inspiring. It offers a fresh perspective on environmental activism, moving beyond traditional narratives to highlight the power of collective grassroots movements. Dawson's writing is not only informative but also deeply motivational, urging readers to reconsider their role in the fight against environmental degradation.
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in environmental issues, social justice, or community activism. It challenges conventional thinking and encourages a more inclusive, equitable approach to environmentalism. "Environmentalism from Below" is not just a book but a call to action, urging us all to play a part in shaping a more sustainable and just world.
Dawson's compelling narrative weaves together a tapestry of case studies and personal stories, illustrating how 'bottom-up' environmentalism isn't just a choice but a necessity for sustainable change. The book brilliantly argues that the solutions to our environmental crises lie not in top-down policies alone, but in empowering local communities to champion their causes.
What sets this book apart is its focus on intersectionality. Dawson emphasizes how environmental issues are intrinsically linked with social, economic, and political factors, making a strong case for an integrated approach to solving these complex challenges.
Reading "Environmentalism from Below" was both enlightening and inspiring. It offers a fresh perspective on environmental activism, moving beyond traditional narratives to highlight the power of collective grassroots movements. Dawson's writing is not only informative but also deeply motivational, urging readers to reconsider their role in the fight against environmental degradation.
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in environmental issues, social justice, or community activism. It challenges conventional thinking and encourages a more inclusive, equitable approach to environmentalism. "Environmentalism from Below" is not just a book but a call to action, urging us all to play a part in shaping a more sustainable and just world.
March 4, 2025
🚨 Environmentalism and dispossession are consequently NOT contradictory; in fact, they are mutually constitutive and foundational to forest management in India. — Dr. Ashley Dawson.
*
Environmentalism from Below offers a sweeping account of grassroots environmental movements in the Global South, the most affected yet least responsible for climate change. These communities, leading the fight to protect threatened ecosystems and reclaim the environmental commons, persist despite the challenges posed by burning forests and acidifying oceans.
Scholar and activist Ashley Dawson weaves a compelling narrative of climate insurgency, highlighting organizations like La Via Campesina and Shack Dwellers International alongside local resistance efforts in South Africa, Colombia, India, and Nigeria. He addresses four critical challenges: food sovereignty, urban sustainability, energy transition, and conservation, demonstrating how grassroots movements disrupt industrial agriculture, resist extractivism, and advance ecological justice through mass mobilization, nonviolent protest, and direct action. This counterpoint to stagnant UN climate negotiations and narrow Green New Deal proposals reminds us that the fight against ecocide is underway, rooted in anticolonial traditions and demanding global solidarity.
While debates on the climate left often focus on rhetoric and strategy disconnected from existing class struggles, Dawson shifts the focus to the diverse movements of urban squatters, migrants, industrial workers, peasant farmers, women, and Indigenous nations. He also addresses the gendered and intersectional effects of environmental destruction. This comprehensive analysis provides practical strategies for confronting imperialism and capitalism, the structural forces driving environmental destruction. Environmentalism from Below is both a vital analysis and a practical guide to building ecological counterpower.
*
Environmentalism from Below offers a sweeping account of grassroots environmental movements in the Global South, the most affected yet least responsible for climate change. These communities, leading the fight to protect threatened ecosystems and reclaim the environmental commons, persist despite the challenges posed by burning forests and acidifying oceans.
Scholar and activist Ashley Dawson weaves a compelling narrative of climate insurgency, highlighting organizations like La Via Campesina and Shack Dwellers International alongside local resistance efforts in South Africa, Colombia, India, and Nigeria. He addresses four critical challenges: food sovereignty, urban sustainability, energy transition, and conservation, demonstrating how grassroots movements disrupt industrial agriculture, resist extractivism, and advance ecological justice through mass mobilization, nonviolent protest, and direct action. This counterpoint to stagnant UN climate negotiations and narrow Green New Deal proposals reminds us that the fight against ecocide is underway, rooted in anticolonial traditions and demanding global solidarity.
While debates on the climate left often focus on rhetoric and strategy disconnected from existing class struggles, Dawson shifts the focus to the diverse movements of urban squatters, migrants, industrial workers, peasant farmers, women, and Indigenous nations. He also addresses the gendered and intersectional effects of environmental destruction. This comprehensive analysis provides practical strategies for confronting imperialism and capitalism, the structural forces driving environmental destruction. Environmentalism from Below is both a vital analysis and a practical guide to building ecological counterpower.
June 9, 2024
3.5! Definitely an important subject matter but I do feel like you could read the appendix and get pretty much the same info as in the 200 pages prior to the appendix. That being said, this is a very concise blueprint of what actions and commitments are required to save the planet and the people who live on it. And I’m glad that my local library system now has this in rotation!
April 3, 2024
so well researched but oh my god is this dense, also sometimes i felt like the author should have emphasized the role of colonialism in environmental struggles way more as an overarching context
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews