Climate Justice in Action - by Katie McQuaid & Neil J W Crawford & Admire Mare & Susan Nanduddu (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Available open access digitally under CC-BY-NC-ND licence.

Climate Justice in Action celebrates the activism and adaptations of Eastern Africa, one of the most climate vulnerable regions of the world. Contributions from activists and researchers highlight diverse innovations and efforts to curb environmental catastrophe through transforming social inequalities and addressing root causes. The book amplifies community voices and intersectional approaches that integrate environmental sustainability with social and climate justice.

The book highlights the direct actions and policy changes taking place in Eastern Africa today to address the pressing challenges of erratic weather, forced displacement, disasters and energy and food insecurity. It includes case studies on African concepts of climate justice and resistance, youth activism in Uganda and Kenya, climate displacement in Somalia, sexual and reproductive health in Zimbabwe and environmental graffiti in Sudan.

Review Quotes

'A vital, justice-driven book that centres Eastern African voices and reimagines climate activism through grounded, intersectional and creative responses. Essential reading for anyone committed to climate justice and transformative change.' James Ford, University of Leeds

'As farmers, we face the harsh effects of climate change despite our minimal role in causing it. Women, often most affected, are also key to driving solutions and need support. This book highlights our shared experiences in Eastern Africa, and I thank the authors for bringing our stories to light.' Constance Okollet, Osukuru United Women's Network, Uganda

'Climate Justice in Action offers a powerful and imaginative exploration of environmental activism in Eastern Africa. Through creative storytelling, visual art, and participatory research, it captures the emotional and political textures of climate justice struggles, demonstrating how artistic expression can transform understanding, inspire solidarity, and reimagine more equitable futures.' Stella Nantongo, FOTEA Foundation

'This book sets a new standard for climate justice scholarship. Grounded in rich case studies and foregrounding voices from Eastern Africa, it offers an urgently needed decolonial and intersectional approach. By blending rigorous research, creative expression, and activist praxis, the book redefines how we understand adaptation and justice in the Majority World.' Kavya Michael, Chalmers University of Technology

'Climate Justice in Action brings new voices and lived experiences to the centre of the climate debate. It highlights the necessity of a new form of climate justice that challenges assumptions and foregrounds climate action in the social and structural causes of today's poly-crisis. An urgent and timely book for those striving for a just and sustainable future.' Ed Atkins, University of Bristol

'This powerful collection amplifies voices too often excluded from global climate debates. Rooted in lived experience and centred on grassroots movements, it is both a vivid record and a rallying cry for intersectional climate justice in Eastern Africa. It proves that solutions already exist - and that they are forged by those living the crisis.' Michael Mikulewicz, State University of New York

'This book tells East Africa's climate story from a more informed perspective. It's a great resource tool for environment/science journalists, policy makers and the public as it highlights home-grown innovations, plus practical adaptation strategies aimed at addressing food and water insecurity, flooding, drought and disasters.' Davis Buyondo, New Vision, Uganda

'As a geospatial scientist working at the nexus of gender, climate policy and adaptation across Africa, I found this book's grounded engagement with equity, governance and lived experience to be deeply compelling. Climate Justice in Action powerfully connects evidence, place-based insights and transformative pathways toward a just and climate-resilient future.' Chepcheng Lynn, African Group of Negotiators Expert Support (AGNES)

'Climate Justice in Action is a timely collaborative contribution that enriches the global climate conversation. The book centers diverse disciplinary perspectives and voices of communities on the frontlines of climate change activism and adaptation. A powerful resource for anyone passionate about inclusive climate governance.' Pedi Obani, University of Bradford

About the Author

Katie McQuaid is Associate Professor of Gender and Climate at the University of Leeds.

Neil J. W. Crawford is Lecturer in International Politics and Public Policy at the University of Stirling.

Admire Mare is Associate Professor and Head of Department of Communication and Media at the University of Johannesburg.

Susan Nandudduis is Executive Director of the African Centre for Trade and Development, Uganda.