This site is dedicated to sharing small ways we can make a big impact on the Environment, but in The World Without Us, Alan Weisman explores the biggest impact we could make – by leaving the planet altogether. Yep. What would happen to the planet if it was suddenly rid of our parasitic presence? Drawing on the expertise of engineers, atmospheric scientists, art conservators, zoologists, oil refiners, marine biologists, astrophysicists, religious leaders from rabbis to the Dalai Lama, and paleontologists –Weisman illustrates what the planet might be like today, if not for us. This book is a little bit creepy, a little bit sci-fi and a lot entertaining. We’ve never read such a page-turning eco book! You may be surprised to learn which man-made structures could stand the test of time and that future inhabitants of Earth will have no trouble finding packing peanuts to ship gifts around the abandoned globe. If you’re looking for a green read that’ll keep your book group buzzing or fodder for great Sunday brunch conversation, Alan Weisman’s The World Without Us will not disappoint.

Thanks to Michael Newman for loaning us his book!