Enric Sala wants to change the world–and in this groundbreaking book, he shows us how. Once we appreciate how nature works, he asserts, we will understand why its preservation is economically practical and essential to our survival.

In this highly readable narrative, Sala, director of National Geographic’s Pristine Seas project, tells the story of his scientific awakening, the colorful mentors whose work inspired him, and his transition from academic to activism–because, as he put it, he was tired of writing the obituary of the ocean. His revelations are surprising, and sometimes counterintuitive- Lots of sharks are actually the best indicator of a healthy ocean ecosystem, and crop diversity, rather than intensive monoculture farming, is the key to planetary abundance.

For decades, Sala has spearheaded ocean protection, convincing world leaders to protect areas amounting to five times the size of Texas–and he is still passionately pushing for more. Using fascinating examples from his own expeditions and groundbreaking findings from other scientists, Sala builds the case for the economic wisdom of making room for nature, even as the population builds to eight million and grows more urbanized by the decade. Both relatable and inspiring, this powerful book will change the way you think about the world–and the future.