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The Case for Nature: The Other Planetary Crisis
Our planet is facing not one but two crises.
In a world where carbon emissions and climate financing are rightly rising up the agenda, there exists another catastrophe that is often overlooked but just as dire-the global collapse of our ecosystems. Siddarth Shrikanth's The Case for Nature presents a compelling vision for tackling this other crisis by rethinking our relationship with nature in economic, social and even personal terms.
Shrikanth argues that we can create flourishing economies and societies by preserving and restoring our planet's 'natural capital' and introduces the pioneers of this nature-positive revolution with vivid examples from across the world. But he also calls on readers to reflect on the roots of this crisis, drawing upon indigenous world views to show that nature must be woven into our modern societies, not set apart.
By offering a hopeful yet deeply pragmatic perspective on how we can exist in harmony with our living planet, The Case for Nature is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand how nature can help us forge a more sustainable future and what they can do to contribute to this vision.
In a world where carbon emissions and climate financing are rightly rising up the agenda, there exists another catastrophe that is often overlooked but just as dire-the global collapse of our ecosystems. Siddarth Shrikanth's The Case for Nature presents a compelling vision for tackling this other crisis by rethinking our relationship with nature in economic, social and even personal terms.
Shrikanth argues that we can create flourishing economies and societies by preserving and restoring our planet's 'natural capital' and introduces the pioneers of this nature-positive revolution with vivid examples from across the world. But he also calls on readers to reflect on the roots of this crisis, drawing upon indigenous world views to show that nature must be woven into our modern societies, not set apart.
By offering a hopeful yet deeply pragmatic perspective on how we can exist in harmony with our living planet, The Case for Nature is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand how nature can help us forge a more sustainable future and what they can do to contribute to this vision.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 22, 2023
22 people are currently reading
253 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
June 8, 2024
I genuinely enjoyed this, gave some very good in depth points.
Basically we need to heavily invest in green tech, biodiversity in cities and let First Nations peoples all over the world have a significant role in future decisions.
Basically we need to heavily invest in green tech, biodiversity in cities and let First Nations peoples all over the world have a significant role in future decisions.
July 8, 2023
“If we can't make the economic case for nature... then we are all on a suicidal course; And we’re going to stay on that course until we make that case as widely as possible.”
The Case for Nature by Siddharth Shrikanth is a compilation of how different companies, governments and people are championing not just climate but also biodiversity! The idea is to ensure that growth and economic prosperity are taken into account when creating plans for protection of biodiversity. The examples illustrated in the book show this happening in real life in many different places. Whether it is promoting eco-tourism to ensure economic survival for small islands along with promoting research and education for the same, or figuring out how to ensure the fragile ecosystem in a city like Mumbai is maintained, there are solutions for it all!
We are living with nature and are part of it and it is up to is to keep the balance. Over the course of his travels, the author shows us that nature is suffering and ultimately we are the ones responsible. We can include nature and sustainability in economic development as well create new avenues of growth, if only we think about new ideas and solutions! A worthy read that makes you think and understand the possibilities and implications of this problem!
The Case for Nature by Siddharth Shrikanth is a compilation of how different companies, governments and people are championing not just climate but also biodiversity! The idea is to ensure that growth and economic prosperity are taken into account when creating plans for protection of biodiversity. The examples illustrated in the book show this happening in real life in many different places. Whether it is promoting eco-tourism to ensure economic survival for small islands along with promoting research and education for the same, or figuring out how to ensure the fragile ecosystem in a city like Mumbai is maintained, there are solutions for it all!
We are living with nature and are part of it and it is up to is to keep the balance. Over the course of his travels, the author shows us that nature is suffering and ultimately we are the ones responsible. We can include nature and sustainability in economic development as well create new avenues of growth, if only we think about new ideas and solutions! A worthy read that makes you think and understand the possibilities and implications of this problem!
July 29, 2023
I picked up this book because I wanted to deepen my knowledge on the nature crisis, since this is often overlooked in favour of tackling the climate crisis. Yet most probably don't realise that the degradation of ecosystems and the services they provide is just as pressing an issue as the pumping of fossil fuels into our atmosphere. Shrikanth's book really promises to plug that gap in popular knowledge. His writing is excellent, well-researched, but presented in a very readable way.
I was wary once I realised this book was chiefly about promoting the trade of 'natural capital' within existing financial markets. I remain unconvinced that innovations within the existing global capitalist system will be enough to avert the climate and nature crises that we are living in. A paradigm shift is needed that changes how much of the world's population relates to nature. From the title I didn’t realise it would be mainly about reconceptualising nature as a financial asset. I thought it might challenge existing paradigms a bit more.
However, I was pleased that Shrikanth foregrounds the intrinsic value of nature, and not just its economic value. He comes from a family of conservationists who raised him with this belief. Shrikanth goes to great lengths to investigate the relationship various Indigenous peoples have had with nature over the ages, and what we can learn from these perspectives.
Even though I believe Degrowth to be a better path for humanity and nature than Green Growth, I was very interested by the innovative ideas for greening existing markets. Inspired by carbon markets, nature markets could trade in ‘biocredits’ in order to fund and monitor biodiversity and nature regeneration projects. I liked the idea of creating National Assets Companies (NACs) with share prices designed to go up, as this incentivises companies to increase the value of their stock e.g. by reforesting a mangrove (which in turn sequesters carbon).
The other cool bit was learning about new technologies that quickly help us map out the state of the land and sea, such as LiDAR drones, which are becoming cheaper by the year. There was also this Danish project that sucks eDNA out of the air?? Meaning that you can tell just from the air or soil what species are in the area. Amazing.
All told I agree with Shrikanth’s remark that we can’t let perfect be the enemy of the good. I find it hard to believe that we will win the ideological battle for Degrowth before it is too late for our planet. However, I would have liked it to get more of a mention in this book.
I was wary once I realised this book was chiefly about promoting the trade of 'natural capital' within existing financial markets. I remain unconvinced that innovations within the existing global capitalist system will be enough to avert the climate and nature crises that we are living in. A paradigm shift is needed that changes how much of the world's population relates to nature. From the title I didn’t realise it would be mainly about reconceptualising nature as a financial asset. I thought it might challenge existing paradigms a bit more.
However, I was pleased that Shrikanth foregrounds the intrinsic value of nature, and not just its economic value. He comes from a family of conservationists who raised him with this belief. Shrikanth goes to great lengths to investigate the relationship various Indigenous peoples have had with nature over the ages, and what we can learn from these perspectives.
Even though I believe Degrowth to be a better path for humanity and nature than Green Growth, I was very interested by the innovative ideas for greening existing markets. Inspired by carbon markets, nature markets could trade in ‘biocredits’ in order to fund and monitor biodiversity and nature regeneration projects. I liked the idea of creating National Assets Companies (NACs) with share prices designed to go up, as this incentivises companies to increase the value of their stock e.g. by reforesting a mangrove (which in turn sequesters carbon).
The other cool bit was learning about new technologies that quickly help us map out the state of the land and sea, such as LiDAR drones, which are becoming cheaper by the year. There was also this Danish project that sucks eDNA out of the air?? Meaning that you can tell just from the air or soil what species are in the area. Amazing.
All told I agree with Shrikanth’s remark that we can’t let perfect be the enemy of the good. I find it hard to believe that we will win the ideological battle for Degrowth before it is too late for our planet. However, I would have liked it to get more of a mention in this book.
August 27, 2023
"The Case for Nature" by Siddarth Shrikanth delves into the often overlooked crisis of the global collapse of ecosystems, providing a comprehensive exploration of the interconnectedness between nature and human societies. Shrikanth convincingly argues that in addition to addressing carbon emissions and climate financing, it's crucial to rethink our relationship with nature on economic, social, and personal levels.
The book talks about,
- why nature?why now?
- A natural Alley in the climate fight
- A rough guide to ecotourism
- rewild and regenerate
- urban jungles
- natural capitals : A framework
- Tech x Nature
- Fighting Fire with Finance
- The indigenous case for nature
The author's central thesis revolves around the concept of "natural capital," which refers to the value of ecosystems and the services they provide to society, such as clean air, water, and biodiversity. Shrikanth suggests that by recognizing and preserving this natural capital, we can not only mitigate the ongoing ecological crisis but also foster thriving economies and societies.
The book is rich with examples from around the world that illustrate the potential of a nature-positive revolution. These stories highlight individuals, communities, and initiatives that have successfully integrated conservation and restoration efforts into their economic and social models. By showcasing these pioneers, Shrikanth paints a vivid picture of how a sustainable future can be achieved.
One of the book's strengths lies in its emphasis on indigenous worldviews and traditional knowledge. Shrikanth argues that these perspectives hold valuable insights into harmonious coexistence with nature, and he advocates for weaving these principles into modern societies. This aspect adds depth to the book, urging readers to reflect on the roots of the crisis and the potential for meaningful change.
The inclusion of images in between adds an appealing angle to the book that gives a visualising factor to it to make the book more connecting & thought provoking.
In conclusion, Siddarth Shrikanth's "The Case for Nature" is a compelling and timely exploration of the urgent need to address the global collapse of ecosystems. With its insightful analysis, real-world examples, and emphasis on indigenous wisdom, the book provides a roadmap for forging a sustainable future where nature is at the heart of our societies. This thought-provoking read is essential for anyone seeking to understand the critical role of nature in shaping a more resilient and harmonious world.
The book talks about,
- why nature?why now?
- A natural Alley in the climate fight
- A rough guide to ecotourism
- rewild and regenerate
- urban jungles
- natural capitals : A framework
- Tech x Nature
- Fighting Fire with Finance
- The indigenous case for nature
The author's central thesis revolves around the concept of "natural capital," which refers to the value of ecosystems and the services they provide to society, such as clean air, water, and biodiversity. Shrikanth suggests that by recognizing and preserving this natural capital, we can not only mitigate the ongoing ecological crisis but also foster thriving economies and societies.
The book is rich with examples from around the world that illustrate the potential of a nature-positive revolution. These stories highlight individuals, communities, and initiatives that have successfully integrated conservation and restoration efforts into their economic and social models. By showcasing these pioneers, Shrikanth paints a vivid picture of how a sustainable future can be achieved.
One of the book's strengths lies in its emphasis on indigenous worldviews and traditional knowledge. Shrikanth argues that these perspectives hold valuable insights into harmonious coexistence with nature, and he advocates for weaving these principles into modern societies. This aspect adds depth to the book, urging readers to reflect on the roots of the crisis and the potential for meaningful change.
The inclusion of images in between adds an appealing angle to the book that gives a visualising factor to it to make the book more connecting & thought provoking.
In conclusion, Siddarth Shrikanth's "The Case for Nature" is a compelling and timely exploration of the urgent need to address the global collapse of ecosystems. With its insightful analysis, real-world examples, and emphasis on indigenous wisdom, the book provides a roadmap for forging a sustainable future where nature is at the heart of our societies. This thought-provoking read is essential for anyone seeking to understand the critical role of nature in shaping a more resilient and harmonious world.
August 4, 2023
It provides an approach based on nature as its ally and look beyond the institutional setup also to look for alternate economic models.
The major and most appeared problem to the nature is by tourism industry and the waste produced by it. How sadly the countries that reckon in tourism have most exploited in case of biodiversity.
It provides certain principles that each industry must follow to actively safeguard nature and people. For example, how local communities must be actively involved under the umbrella of ecotourism by helping them connect with nature scientifically.
Next, is how regenerating agriculture in long term could potentially transform the ecosystem around and soil health for the betterment of farmers help improve food security. Also, the question of how far urban jungle are going to repay for the damages and relief nature of its problems is my only question regarding the whole book. Second comes, how re greening cities are gonna compensate without any change in institutional set up is going to solve thats already damaged way underway.
The case do nature provides with steps for protecting nature starting from today
The major and most appeared problem to the nature is by tourism industry and the waste produced by it. How sadly the countries that reckon in tourism have most exploited in case of biodiversity.
It provides certain principles that each industry must follow to actively safeguard nature and people. For example, how local communities must be actively involved under the umbrella of ecotourism by helping them connect with nature scientifically.
Next, is how regenerating agriculture in long term could potentially transform the ecosystem around and soil health for the betterment of farmers help improve food security. Also, the question of how far urban jungle are going to repay for the damages and relief nature of its problems is my only question regarding the whole book. Second comes, how re greening cities are gonna compensate without any change in institutional set up is going to solve thats already damaged way underway.
The case do nature provides with steps for protecting nature starting from today
July 7, 2023
This book offers tangible insights about climate and biodiversity, including the core values it drives towards carbon emissions and their economic impacts.
The case for nature presents a compelling vision for tackling the crisis by rethinking our relationship with nature in the economy, society, and on a personal level.
The author explains "natural capital," which refers to the rich biodiversity and pioneering ecosystem that restore flourishing resources on the planet.
This book is well-researched and offers a hopeful yet deeply pragmatic perspective on how we can exist in harmony with our living planet.
The sustainable development and global impact of the environmental crisis are vividly presented through various facts and figures. The book also explores how the climate and ecosystems contribute to boosting countries' economies.
It is a must-read for anyone with a deep interest in nature and climate. The author shares figures from all over the world, highlighting the variety of biodiversity and its consequences at each stratum of society affected by neglecting certain factors.
The case for nature presents a compelling vision for tackling the crisis by rethinking our relationship with nature in the economy, society, and on a personal level.
The author explains "natural capital," which refers to the rich biodiversity and pioneering ecosystem that restore flourishing resources on the planet.
This book is well-researched and offers a hopeful yet deeply pragmatic perspective on how we can exist in harmony with our living planet.
The sustainable development and global impact of the environmental crisis are vividly presented through various facts and figures. The book also explores how the climate and ecosystems contribute to boosting countries' economies.
It is a must-read for anyone with a deep interest in nature and climate. The author shares figures from all over the world, highlighting the variety of biodiversity and its consequences at each stratum of society affected by neglecting certain factors.
November 14, 2024
One of my most interesting reads lately. The book is very well written and accessible even if you don't have all the knowledge about some topics (sustainable finance hellooo) so it reads very well and it kept my attention the whole time.
I really liked the idea about making a business case for nature although I was super uncomfortable about it for the whole book and I still am! The author though addresses this same point at the end of the book, when highlighting how important it is to rely on indigenous people for knowledge and management of nature, and how the case if nature should really not be guided by economy but it should be intrinsic (also seen how many services nature offers to us at any given moment).
Overall a great book both to learn about business cases and initiatives for nature restoration/conservation, and also to reflect in how to approach climate change and the loss of nature without giving into looming ecoanxiety.
I really liked the idea about making a business case for nature although I was super uncomfortable about it for the whole book and I still am! The author though addresses this same point at the end of the book, when highlighting how important it is to rely on indigenous people for knowledge and management of nature, and how the case if nature should really not be guided by economy but it should be intrinsic (also seen how many services nature offers to us at any given moment).
Overall a great book both to learn about business cases and initiatives for nature restoration/conservation, and also to reflect in how to approach climate change and the loss of nature without giving into looming ecoanxiety.
January 2, 2026
This is one of many books born of the Covid era, written with what now reads as a somewhat naïve optimism and steeped in the early-2020s “build back better” narrative. Yet even by 2023, when the book was published, carbon markets were already encountering significant headwinds, and efforts to monetise biodiversity credits were faltering.
The book succeeds in clearly explaining several of the concepts that underpin proposed responses to the nature crisis and, in places, offers a measured assessment of their limitations. However, its overarching claim, that viable, market-based solutions are readily available, ultimately falls flat. This argument rests on a selective set of niche examples each treated as if it were a blueprint for global transformation rather than what it often is: a pilot project with good branding.
I would recommend this book as a primer on carbon markets and pro-nature policy initiatives, though readers would be wise to research each company cited and assess how those claims have aged.
The book succeeds in clearly explaining several of the concepts that underpin proposed responses to the nature crisis and, in places, offers a measured assessment of their limitations. However, its overarching claim, that viable, market-based solutions are readily available, ultimately falls flat. This argument rests on a selective set of niche examples each treated as if it were a blueprint for global transformation rather than what it often is: a pilot project with good branding.
I would recommend this book as a primer on carbon markets and pro-nature policy initiatives, though readers would be wise to research each company cited and assess how those claims have aged.
August 26, 2023
Book: The Case for Nature
Author: Siddarth Shrikanth
Genre: Non Fiction
..
My Rating: 4/5
⭐⭐⭐⭐
..
In our fast-paced lives, we often overlook the critical nature crisis and Earth's transformations, including environmental degradation and the climate emergency.
Siddarth Shrikanth's remarkable book not only raises awareness but also leaves a profound impact on readers through his expertise.
The book delves into biodiversity and its economic implications, skillfully presenting case studies and well researched examples.
The author sheds light on government policies and corporate involvement, while the well-arranged topics and sequence enhance the reading experience. The inclusion of aptly explained visuals and examples further adds to the book's merit.
The author adeptly introduces the concept of eco-tourism, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to have read this informative work. I'm so glad to read this book as the research author did is praiseworthy.
It is a must-read to promote awareness about this significant issue. I wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone.
..
Author: Siddarth Shrikanth
Genre: Non Fiction
..
My Rating: 4/5
⭐⭐⭐⭐
..
In our fast-paced lives, we often overlook the critical nature crisis and Earth's transformations, including environmental degradation and the climate emergency.
Siddarth Shrikanth's remarkable book not only raises awareness but also leaves a profound impact on readers through his expertise.
The book delves into biodiversity and its economic implications, skillfully presenting case studies and well researched examples.
The author sheds light on government policies and corporate involvement, while the well-arranged topics and sequence enhance the reading experience. The inclusion of aptly explained visuals and examples further adds to the book's merit.
The author adeptly introduces the concept of eco-tourism, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to have read this informative work. I'm so glad to read this book as the research author did is praiseworthy.
It is a must-read to promote awareness about this significant issue. I wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone.
..
January 12, 2024
Fascinating and motivating: Shrikanth seems to write with both a conversational and an academic voice.
I very much enjoyed reading about his lived experience, was impressed by the explanations of market forces and economic principles, and feel empowered to continue to support nature in my small ways (plant-based diet, greening & rewilding efforts, pernickety reduction of household waste, through reuse, swaps and reciprocity etc)
I have known for some time that there are ways in which I can share my enthusiasm and methods, which might encourage others, but have felt like a very small voice in a vast void.
I now feel motivated to follow my instincts, and use my small voice because somebody might hear.
I very much enjoyed reading about his lived experience, was impressed by the explanations of market forces and economic principles, and feel empowered to continue to support nature in my small ways (plant-based diet, greening & rewilding efforts, pernickety reduction of household waste, through reuse, swaps and reciprocity etc)
I have known for some time that there are ways in which I can share my enthusiasm and methods, which might encourage others, but have felt like a very small voice in a vast void.
I now feel motivated to follow my instincts, and use my small voice because somebody might hear.
June 10, 2025
Funnily enough - I had a call scheduled with Siddharth in April 2025 which got postponed and only then realised that his book had been in my to-read lists for the last year or so.
Ended up purchasing the book immediately to read it before my call with him.
Loved reading this book for many reasons:-
- Siddharth writes in an easy to read manner with anecdotes from his travels across the world. Safe to say that I have added new places to visit on my travel excel sheet.
- learnt about the good work being done by several organisations and people around natural capital.
Ended up purchasing the book immediately to read it before my call with him.
Loved reading this book for many reasons:-
- Siddharth writes in an easy to read manner with anecdotes from his travels across the world. Safe to say that I have added new places to visit on my travel excel sheet.
- learnt about the good work being done by several organisations and people around natural capital.
December 26, 2023
The writing is as abhorrent as the obscene pro-market 'solutions' to the nature crisis. Among the worst books I've ever read.
June 18, 2024
Good book to start understanding the economic case for nature and learn from examples across the world. But if you already work in this space, there won't be much new.
September 24, 2025
Really interesting read, lots of very good case studies and some more positive ideas around what can and should be done to combat climate change
July 5, 2023
A book about human greed and ignorance.
Due to which he can't see the self harming done by harming environment.
🏵️🏵️🏵️
.
.Full of stories of hope from around the world.
.
Plus possible solutions
Like giving ecology a price tag.
Regenerative practices.
Urban greening.
Organic farming.
Ecotourism.
.
.
A great book for nature lovers and everyone who depends on ecology.
.
.A book from @penguinindia
Due to which he can't see the self harming done by harming environment.
🏵️🏵️🏵️
.
.Full of stories of hope from around the world.
.
Plus possible solutions
Like giving ecology a price tag.
Regenerative practices.
Urban greening.
Organic farming.
Ecotourism.
.
.
A great book for nature lovers and everyone who depends on ecology.
.
.A book from @penguinindia
July 5, 2023
The case for nature and the other planetary crisis is an intriguing work that combines different positive and thoughtfully acquired insights that can ultimately ensure the renewal and sustainability of nature.
This fascinating book highlights his travels and the in-depth research on the impact on various aspects and benefits of extensive actions to renew and replenish the natural world. This book will compel you to think of nature's regeneration in terms of economic and social level.
"the nature world is priceless - but that doesn't mean it doesn't also have value."
The author ardently encourages the readers to aim at recognising the significance of Natural capital. He also conveys that the restoring ecosystem and reversing biodiversity should be prioritised while efforts and awareness about the same can lead to a positive impact on nature.
There are several intriguing facts and assessments that are incorporated in the book exploring the compelling intentions and possibilities of stopping the overexploitation and degradation of the environment. Focusing on the climate solutions, the book further magnifies the innovative and advanced ways to tackle the problem from the core. The book encompasses concepts of the carbon market, ecotourism, urban jungles and more.
An intriguing essential read.
This fascinating book highlights his travels and the in-depth research on the impact on various aspects and benefits of extensive actions to renew and replenish the natural world. This book will compel you to think of nature's regeneration in terms of economic and social level.
"the nature world is priceless - but that doesn't mean it doesn't also have value."
The author ardently encourages the readers to aim at recognising the significance of Natural capital. He also conveys that the restoring ecosystem and reversing biodiversity should be prioritised while efforts and awareness about the same can lead to a positive impact on nature.
There are several intriguing facts and assessments that are incorporated in the book exploring the compelling intentions and possibilities of stopping the overexploitation and degradation of the environment. Focusing on the climate solutions, the book further magnifies the innovative and advanced ways to tackle the problem from the core. The book encompasses concepts of the carbon market, ecotourism, urban jungles and more.
An intriguing essential read.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews