This book review is part of the Green Books Campaign, whereby 100 bloggers are reviewing 100 great books printed in an environmentally friendly way. This campaign is organized by Eco-Libris, a green company working to green up the book industry by promoting the adoption of green practices, balancing out books by planting trees, and supporting green books. A full list of participating blogs and links to their reviews is available on the Eco-Libris website. So readers, feel free to jump in and let us know what you think about these green books, or any others. My book review of Who Owns the Arctic? follows…
Several sovereign nations want the riches that lie beneath the Arctic’s diminishing ice – but does anyone really own it? That question, posed by author Michael Byers, is both challenging and complex. 
Having led two projects for ArcticNet, a Canadian government-funded research consortium: the first on the Northwest Passage, the second on competing claims to oil and gas reserves below the Arctic Ocean, Byers brings an expert’s perspective to the analysis born of both eyewitness accounts and first hand experiences from the tip of the iceberg, as well as exhaustive research. Besides authoring War Law and Intent for a Nation, Byers holds the Canada Research Chair in Global Politics and International Law at the University of British Columbia.
The book and issue, which on the surface may appear to be a boring academic exercise, turns out to be a fascinating read that outlines the history and issues surrounding Arctic ownership. Canada, USA, Russia, Norway and Denmark all have land bordering these remote, icy waters — what criteria determines the fate of not only these countries, but also, perhaps our entire ecosystem? There’s a lot at stake, and the laws governing the area seem as fluid and slippery as the ice melting.
In the end, Byers proposes a collaborative approach to answering this burning question. And, surprisingly, poses another, “more important question” instead: “Are we, as a country, (Canada), up to the task?” It is a complicated issue and in a world where these decisions are often influenced by giant energy companies and other special interests – - I ask, are we all, up to the task? Byers’ work is a compelling read on an intriguing and vital issue. Grab a copy here and pass along to friends. Or ask your public library for a copy.
green foot note: “this book is printed on forest-friendly paper” by Douglas & McIntyre Publishers.
RSS
Thanks for reviewing the green book.
It was fun to know that 100 bloggers would be posting their book reviews simultaneously. If you happen to read this book, let us know what you think. I learned a lot and was captivated by the aspect of “environmental intrigue.” Thanks for stopping by and commenting.
I’m really interested in this one. I remember seeing it on the list, and I’m happy to read your review of it. I don’t know why, but I have an interest in the politics of both of the poles. I actually have a really good friend who worked on the other end of the world on the south pole. It seems the more we expand outward, there is no area on earth that will be untouched by human hands.
Financing is really struggling around these days.