Carbon

A journey into the essence of carbon, the planet’s most versatile element, by New York Times bestselling author Paul Hawken.

Carbon is the foundation of all living systems, a vital yet often misunderstood element. Though it makes up only a small fraction of Earth’s composition, life as we know it would not exist without it. Yet, carbon is frequently cast as the villain of climate change, blamed for the potential downfall of civilization.

In this insightful exploration, Paul Hawken examines life’s intricate web through the lens of carbon. Taking a sweeping perspective, he reveals how this fundamental element permeates every aspect of existence—from plants and animals to fungi, food, and farms. Tracing carbon’s journey across planetary history, he redefines its role, offering a fresh narrative that highlights its life-sustaining power and potential to shape the future.

With clarity, hope, and a deep sense of interconnectedness, Hawken invites us to reconsider our relationship with nature, carbon, and one another—showing that our destinies are not separate but beautifully intertwined.