Drawdown: Top 10 Powerful Solutions to Global Warming

Released in 2017, a book written by Paul Hawken, called “Drawdown” identifies 80 existing and 20 nascent technologies and solutions that, if implemented together, could help reverse global warming and lead to a sustainable future.

The top 100 solutions to global warming identified by Project Drawdown focus on:

  • Good for us
  • Good for the economy
  • Good for the future

The solutions range from renewable energy sources like wind and solar power to unexpected strategies such as refrigeration management, reducing food waste, and investing in education and family planning.

Each solution is ranked based on its CO2 savings, cost, and economic value. According to the book, these solutions could save over 1,000 gigatons of emissions and generate approximately $74 trillion in economic value between 2020 and 2050, with an initial cost of $27 trillion. The rankings are based on extensive research and analysis of data from reputable sources.

The book aims to provide concrete solutions and implementation plans to address climate change on a global scale. It includes potentially controversial options like waste-to-energy and nuclear power, acknowledging their potential value but also noting associated costs and challenges.

The author, Paul Hawken, believes that the book will be valuable for students, philanthropists, impact investors, and policymakers seeking effective solutions to combat climate change. Hawken remains optimistic about the collective efforts and resistance from various groups in addressing environmental issues.


Drawdown: The Top Ten Solutions

Refrigerant management

Wind turbines (onshore)

Reduced food waste

Plant-rich diet

Tropical forests

Educating girls

Family planning

Solar farms

Silvopasture

Rooftop solar