Gary C. Bryner - Protecting the Global Environment

First published 2011 by Paradigm Publishers

Published 2016 by Routledge
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Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data
Bryner, Gary C., 1951-2010

Protecting the global environment / Gary C. Bryner.

p. cm. (International studies intensives)

Includes bibliographical references.

ISBN 978-1-59451-674-0 (hardcover : alk. paper) ISBN 978-1-59451-675-7 (pbk. : alk.

paper) 1. Environmental policyPolitical aspects. 2. Global environmental change
Political aspects. 3. Environmental protectionPolitical aspects. I. Title.

GE170.B79 2011

363.70526dc22

2010035325

Designed and Typeset by Mulberry Tree Enterprises.

ISBN 13: 978-1-59451-674-0 (hbk)
ISBN 13: 978-1-59451-675-7 (pbk)

by Mark A. Boyer, Series Editor

T his is a very special book. Its special in several quite distinctly different ways. First and most importantly, it represents the culmination of Gary Bryners distinguished academic career, one focusing on environmental issues from international, legal, and policy perspectives. But it is not just that this book comes near the end of his career. The final manuscript was submitted to the publisher after Gary passed away in March 2010. In a very real sense, these are among Garys last scholarly words, and they are insightful, thought-provoking and valuable ones indeed.

Second, this book is distinct for its emphasis on using the lenses of international relations theory to help us better understand the dilemmas of global environmental politics. Throughout the book, Gary introduces the reader to many of the fundamental theories and concepts of political science and international relations as ways of analyzing the political problems that face the countries of the world today. And he does this in exceedingly readable, accessible, and practical ways. By infusing his discussion of global environmental politics with theoretical richness, he challenges the reader to make choices for action and not just intellectual exercise. In very direct ways, he leaves us with agendas for thought and action that seek to link this generation to those that will follow. Put simply, without action today, we risk leaving those who come after us with truly insurmountable problems. The theme that ultimately jumps from this book is the need for current citizens and policymakers to make environmental choices that are ethical, moral, and just in transgenerational ways. At the risk of sounding trite, the future is now, and we must act.

A third way in which this book is special stems from the collective enterprise that was necessitated during its production. This book is part of the International Studies Intensives series, a highly collaborative series with an active Editorial Board. This Board gave Gary input into his project from the beginning and followed the manuscripts development with great interest. When Gary became ill, we realized the project might not come to fruition. But we were surprised and delighted when Garys wife, Jane Bryner, submitted a nearly complete manuscript directly following Garys death.