Author promotes 'carbon wave' concept as alternative to carbon footprint framing

A writer has published a book arguing that the carbon footprint framework should be replaced with a systems-focused approach to climate action.

First covered Aug 20, 2026 · 12:00 PM PT · 3 articles · no longer in the live window

Author promotes 'carbon wave' concept as alternative to carbon footprint framing — Image via electricnotes.news

Coverage

37d via Bluesky How big can you make your carbon wave? (I wrote a book!) — Let’s ditch the “carbon footprint” and work together to build waves that change the system instead.

Primary sources

penguinrandomhouse.com The Carbon Wave by Leah C. Stokes: 9780262054775 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books — cited by 3 of the outlets above

thecarbonwave.com Book Club — The Carbon Wave — cited by 3 of the outlets above

greenapplebooks.com 9Th Ave Leah C Stokes Rebecca Solnit (greenapplebooks.com) — cited by 3 of the outlets above

More coverage from around the web

nationalgeographic.com Forget your carbon footprint—your climate shadow is what really matters | National Geographic

image-ppubs.uspto.gov Recycling carbon dioxide via capture and temporary storage to produce renewable fuels and derived products

alternative-energy-tutorials.com The Rise of Alternative Energy as a Sustainable Solution for the Future

impactful.ninja What Is the Carbon Footprint of Alternative Energy? A Life-Cycle Assessment | Impactful Ninja

wavegarden.com Wavegarden | Heading towards a carbon neutral surf park

Discussion

Bluesky: @leahstokes.bsky.social Leah Stokes · 37d ago · 55 ♥ Fossil fuel companies spent over $100M/year selling the "carbon footprint" idea. Let's replace it, with a new model for collective action: "the carbon wave." Here's a sneak peek into my book, a carbon wave calculator + book tour dates. Would love to see you IRL!

Appeared in: 2026-08-21 (#20)

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