Politicians stand at a crossroads where the path to green policies is fraught with political risks, as the immediate costs to society may overshadow the profound future benefits. Lorenzo Forni sets out the decisions we need to take to collectively save the world from the ravages of climate catastrophe and how politicians might keep voters on board with the green transition. He shows how reaching the net-zero emissions target to forestall further climatic change cannot be achieved by small changes in individual lifestyles alone, but requires big and brave public policy enacted by governments that is properly financed and economically sound.

I have always believed in the importance of the precautionary principle when addressing climate issues – better to act decisively and risk doing too much than to do too little. This book compellingly explains why this approach is necessary and just how far we are from the risk of 'doing too much'.

This excellent book sets out a politically feasible approach to tackling the climate crisis and reaching net-zero emissions of carbon. It clearly and convincingly sets out the necessary policies and show that the costs are modest. Given the growing protests against climate policies, this makes essential reading for all policymakers and those interested in the green transition.

A forensic, urgent and comprehensive exploration of the economic and political obstacles to climate action, and, importantly, the solutions. Forni throws a challenge to governments that they must not ignore.

Lorenzo Forni is Professor of Economic Policy at the University of Padua and Head of Prometeia Associazione. He has worked at the International Monetary Fund in Washington and at the Central Bank of Italy in Rome.