The Zero Footprint Baby

April 29, 2013
In this helpful guide, Chatterjee (director for international climate policy at the World Wildlife Fund) mixes suggestions for raising a baby with a minimal carbon footprint with success stories from her child-rearing experience and that of her friends. She begins with a 2010 quote from the National Academy of Sciences that "the Earth system is warming and... much of this warming is very likely due to human activities" and proceeds from that point, stressing her concern for the world her son will inherit. The book covers issues including nesting, prenatal care and birth, baby gear, diapers, food, and broader issues such as appropriate family size and environmental activism. Chatterjee's perspective is that of an urban working mother and thus the bulk of her suggestions center on this lifestyle. However, she offers recommendations for families in other situations, including those who live in rural areas. She makes clear which choices have the greatest impact on reducing a carbon footprint and is supportive of parents making whichever choices are possible in their unique situations. The one surprising omission is a discussion of stay-at-home parents. Still, the book should prove valuable to all parents who are concerned about reducing the environmental impact of raising children. Agent: Diana Finch, Diana Finch Literary Agency.