Scientists on Survival

Personal Stories of Climate Action

Pre-order here

In this impassioned anthology of essays, twenty four voices from Scientists for XR detail their personal responses to the planetary emergency and the path that led them to become activists. The book contributors are scientists from diverse disciplines, ranging from experts at renowned institutions to students just starting their careers.

‘This is not a book about the science of climate breakdown or biodiversity loss. It is a collection of human stories told through a fierce love for our natural world. I am deeply moved by their accounts, not only because I share their fears and sense of urgency, but because they also fill me with the hope and the energy to carry on fighting to protect the one thing I love most: life on Earth, our one beautiful and precious home.’
Chris Packham, Wildlife TV Presenter & Campaigner (from the foreword)

‘In climate discussions, people tend to fall into one of two camps: the people who know a lot and the people who feel a lot. It's rare to find people who both know exactly what they're talking about and are able to eloquently express the sadness, fury and fear that comes with the climate emergency. This book is written by those people. We're lucky to have it.’

Zadie Smith Author 

‘Beware – this is a dangerous book. Dangerous because it’s impossible to read it and not feel moved to stand up, speak out and take urgent action. In these powerful pages, scientists demonstrate not just their intimate knowledge of the natural world, but their deep love for it too. Refusing to settle for simply monitoring its path towards extinction, they demonstrate the overwhelming responsibility for seeking to halt it too. Passionate, inspiring, and essential.’

Caroline Lucas Former green Party leader

‘Eventually, in today’s agonising campaign to address the Climate Emergency, good science will win out over misinformation and denial. In the meantime, more and more scientists have chosen to put themselves on the frontline by taking non-violent direct action. ‘Scientists on Survival’ highlights the eloquent testimonies of some of these inspiring campaigners. We must all continue to trust in science - and scientists like these who so courageously walk the talk.’

Jonathan Porritt Writer & Campaigner

‘There is a habit of people saying "science should not be political", but science changes our world and our possibilities so it has no choice but to be political. This collection of essays is a vital read in a world so often obscured by those whose only interest is money’

Robin Ince Comedian, Writer & Broadcaster

‘[The authors of this book] offer a window into the motivations and coping strategies of a group of scientists willing to forgo 'successful' careers, endure media attacks, and face ridicule from colleagues. To me, their reasoned activism represents the relinquished conscience of a scientific community that all too often favours short-term self-preservation over integrity and long-term sustainability. I firmly believe that bad things occur when good people remain silent. I hope this collection of essays will serve as a catalyst for widespread, vocal and informed action from scientists of all disciplines and backgrounds.’

Kevin Anderson Professor of Energy and Climate Change

‘[Scientists] permit us to think intelligently about our role as guardians of our fragile planet and how to make informed decisions that minimize harm. Scientists on Survival is packed with their wisdom, insights and inspiration.’

Dame Virginia McKenna & Will Travers OBE, Co-founders The Born Free Foundation

‘Scientists are usually restrained by academic dogma but here they talk from the heart about what the planetary emergency means to them as individuals. This collection of essays is deeply moving, inspiring and profoundly important’ 

Matthew Todd Writer & Broadcaster 

'At a time when it's often hard to keep hope for a better future alive, these stories from scientists who are choosing to take action are deeply inspiring. They should be a wake-up call for all of us.'

Natasha Walter Author, Journalist & Charity Founder