By Todd J. Braje. A unique introduction to how understanding archaeology can support modern-day sustainability efforts, from restoring forested land to developing fire management strategies. Meets the issues of climate change, biodiversity loss, deforestation, overfishing, and other threats head-on, presenting archaeology and history as critical guides to addressing the modern environmental crisis.
Reveals how the study of the ancient past can help build a more sustainable future. Covers a diverse array of interconnected issues, including:
- how modern humans have altered the natural world
- conservation work of Indigenous communities
- extinction of megafauna like dire wolves and woolly rhinoceros
- the risk of deforestation highlighted by Notre Dame’s destruction
- the extinction crisis reflected by endangered bird species in Hawai’i
- fish scarcity driving demand and price, like the single blue-fin tuna fish that sold for three million dollars
- importance of “action archaeology”
Shows that understanding how the planet used to be is fundamental to creating effective restoration efforts. Read more.