Juha Kauppinen: The Essential Biodiversity

Why are humans and nature on a collision course – and what are the consequences for both?

Author: Juha Kauppinen
Finnish original: Monimuotoisuus. Lyhyt oppimäärä
Publisher: Siltala, 2022
Genre: Nonfiction
Number of pages: 132 pp.
Reading material: Finnish original, English synopsis, English translation

The Essential Biodiversity is written for those who want a better understanding of biodiversity loss and a quick, accurate overview of the scale of issues we are facing.

The Essential Biodiversity takes us from the depths of the ocean four billion years ago to the critical questions of our day. Focusing on specific environments and species, Kauppinen illustrates the interdependence that characterizes the natural world and the reciprocal relationships that weave together the web we call life. Understanding this background makes it easier to grasp how changes in conditions – such as global warming – impact this web of life.

What sets The Essential Biodiversity apart is that it also looks for solutions to biodiversity loss. It answers the questions “What should be done now?” and “What I can do to prevent biodiversity loss?” The answers are surprising and provoke fresh thinking.

In this approachable work, award-winning author Juha Kauppinen links biodiversity loss to climate change and draws a clear picture of the essence of ecological crisis.

If enough pieces are lost from the kaleidoscope of life, it stops being an infinite mystery and becomes something painfully limited and comprehensible.”

About the author:
Juha Kauppinen