Many experts agree that energy is the defining issue of this century. Climate change, decimated wildlife, lost farmlands and foreign wars are only a few of the results of our dependence on oil. In Terra Nova, landscape ecologist Eric Sanderson takes us on a journey of discovery, probing the interconnectedness of oil, cars and transportation, suburban living and land use. Divided into two sections, Sanderson takes a uniquely cross disciplinary approach to delve into the roots of our oil dependence, explaining not only the natural history and chemistry of oil, but also detailing how it frames our definition of ourselves as a country and continues to shape our economic and foreign policies. The second half of the book lays out a radical plan for moving away from the shackles of oil through a thought provoking re-imagining of everything: from our cities, to our public works, to our tax laws. Along with his compelling narrative, Sanderson illustrates his ambitious ideas with maps, data graphics, photography and simulated views of the future.