Images from a Warming Planet

This book is not about the mountains. It’s not about hillwalking. But from the start this fascinating collection of photographs strikes a powerful chord, highlighting the dramatic climatic changes happening now that affect us all, not least those who love the great outdoors.

This hefty hardback is the product of one man’s 13-year mission to document climate change in hard-hitting images; Lakes-based Ashley Cooper's heartbreaking documentation of a polar bear starving to death was headline news in 2013. The author does not attempt to study the science of climate change or the evidence, but rather allows the reader to see for themselves. Although the book considers the effect of global warming from all corners of the globe, it is clear that the fells of the Lake District hold a special place in Cooper’s heart, with many stunning photos of the Lakes as well as of the devastation caused by the 2015 floods.

I found this book an insight into a deeply depressing picture; but the photography and anecdotal nuggets – such as the discovery of antlers belonging to a long-extinct species of deer – make it an inspiring read. Ashley Cooper has developed a very clear opinion on climate change, the ‘establishment’ and civilisation – and you may not agree with everything you read. But whatever your perspective you can’t help but be captivated, and perhaps incentivised by his portrayal of our changing world and the disconnect between our planet and humans’ unrelenting expansion, greed and consumption of natural resources.