Discover How a Climate Change Book Captivated Readers Worldwide and Became an International Bestseller | CBC News

Hello, Earthlings! This week, we explore some exciting topics in environmental news, bringing you stories that matter.

This week, we dive into:

• The secret behind a bestselling climate book
• Art and climate awareness in comics
• A unique turtle transport service seeking volunteers in Quebec

A Bestseller on Climate Change

In 2021, French graphic novelist Christophe Blain and energy expert Jean-Marc Jancovici created Le Monde Sans Fin. This illustrated guide to the climate crisis struck a chord with readers, leading to over a million copies sold in France. That’s incredible for a book focused on greenhouse gases!

Despite its success, some critics questioned the authors’ strong support for nuclear power. With discussions around small modular reactors buzzing in Canada, the book’s English edition, World Without End, is now making waves here, too.

Why did it resonate so widely? Jancovici believes it’s because of their existing audiences, which helped propel the book. The blend of education and engaging visuals made the complex topic of climate change more accessible.

The book’s approach, starting with Blain’s personal journey through fear and frustration over climate change, invites readers along for the ride. It’s a reminder of how deeply energy issues intertwine with our daily lives.

Comic Relief in Climate Conversations

Illustration can breathe life and humor into serious topics. Alison McCreesh, an illustrator for the N.W.T. government, transforms dense climate reports into engaging visuals. She believes laughter matters, even in difficult discussions about climate change.

Research from Dom Davies at City University London highlights that comics can convey complex stories better than traditional prose. They draw readers in, making heavy topics lighter and more relatable.

A Turtle Taxi Service in Quebec

Meet Taxi Carapace, a 2024 initiative in Quebec designed to transport injured turtles to rehabilitation centers. Founded by the Nature Conservancy of Canada, it aims to reduce the impacts of road mortality, a leading cause of turtle deaths.

In Quebec, all native freshwater turtles are endangered or vulnerable. The service is critical during spring and summer when turtles are most active. Volunteers are needed to help safely transport injured turtles to care facilities. Here’s a staggering fact: the death of just one adult turtle can set their population back by decades due to their long maturation period.

Since its launch, over 50 volunteers have traveled more than 3,600 kilometers to help these turtles. Their work emphasizes the importance of turtles in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Turtles, often called “janitors of wetlands,” help control algae and other aquatic life, contributing to our environmental health.

The Carapace platform also tracks turtle sightings and road incidents, reinforcing the need for collective action in conservation efforts.

So, whether it’s promoting climate literature, using comics to explain important issues, or volunteering to rescue turtles, there are many ways to engage with and contribute to environmental health.

Thanks for joining us this week! If you have thoughts or stories to share, reach out to us at whatonearth@cbc.ca.

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