Trees that Move the World

More Information

Trees and people: partners on this planet

Oak, teak, rubber, and mahogany: these four tree species have become important factors in global history and have influenced cultures, the map of the world, and political affairs.

This book illustrates why the oak is considered the tree of both farmers and kings, what teak has to do with the eastern expansion of the British Empire, why rubber – a key raw material in the industrialised world – is endangered, and how mahogany contributes to the preservation of the threatened Amazon rainforest.

The author looks back at the history of these trees, shows how they have significantly shaped globalisation, and looks ahead to their future, which is closely linked to human culture. At the intersection of ecology, economics, culture and politics, we gain the understanding necessary to promote these trees and their ecosystems, and thus our own future.

Christian Küchli: is a forestry engineer (ETH). He has worked as a consultant, author, and journalist. The author has travelled the globe and learned much of what is in this book from his own on-the-ground experience.