Almost everyone can imagine something about tipping points. Because the concept is clear: as soon as a certain point is reached, a system tips over irreversibly. As striking as this is, the principle is controversial in climate research. Benjamin von Brackel and Toralf Staud take up this debate in their book “At the Tipping Point”, first academically, then practically, by describing twelve ecosystems as tipping elements.
From the rainforest to coral reefs and various ice and frost regions to the Atlantic overturning circulation, they examine the current state of research on changes in ecosystems that – once initiated – could set off uncontrollable chain reactions for the climate. It is always clear from the research and extensive discussions with experts: many things would change dramatically. The quicker we take countermeasures, the better.
They also present three approaches to this, “positive tipping points” – a strong expansion of the concept. While negative tipping points are all about vulnerable ecosystems, positive tipping points are more about human consumption and behavior, such as the switch to e-mobility. No matter how enthusiastically the authors present them, some aspects such as the limited availability of raw materials or consequences for nature and the environment are largely ignored. Overall, a stimulating book, but not entirely convincing in its outlook. Hans Siglbauer
Toralf Staud, Benjamin von Brackel
At the tipping point. Where the climate is threatening to collapse – and how we can still save ourselves
Kiepenheuer & Witsch Verlag, 384 pages, € 20.–
ISBN 978-3-462-00790-9