The Leap

The crises in our economic system, our energy supply, and our climate are converging. Solving these crises requires a fundamental change in our frame of reference--a decisive shift not so much in technology as in technique. In The Leap, award-winning journalist Chris Turner presents a field guide to making the jump from our current system of energy supply and consumption to a sustainable model that succeeds across the socioeconomic spectrum. It is an integrated approach, one that he calls a "great leap sideways," because it is a lateral leap that anyone can make.

Written with clarity and verve, The Leap draws on recent breakthroughs in state-of-the-art renewable energy, clean tech, and urban design to paint a picture of viable, sustainable economies that are already up and running, from Europe's "green belt" to America's "rust belt." The leap Turner describes lands us in a place of reinvigorated community, renewed industrial might, and greater economic health and social well-being. He takes us there by exploring fascinating "great leaps" that have been made throughout history, and by tackling the biggest challenges we face now.

CHRIS TURNER is one of Canada's leading writers on sustainability and the global clean tech industry. His previous book, The Geography of Hope, was a national bestseller and shortlisted for the Governor General's Literary Award. His reporting has earned him seven Canadian National Magazine Awards including the 2001 President's Medal for General Excellence.