From diet to transport to energy use, the dominant culture tells us that the climate crisis is caused by the lifestyle choices we make. Yet whether it’s because of our socioeconomic status or the neighborhood that we call home, these choices are often governed by the systems in which we live.

Nevertheless, demands for purity persist. And from activists eating meat, to climate scientists who sometimes fly, accusations of hypocrisy are rampant.

Taking a tongue-in-cheek approach, self-confessed eco-hypocrite Sami Grover says we absolutely should minimize the impact of our lifestyles, but a clean break from the status quo is simply not attainable for most. Instead, he argues, we need to target what actions we do take so they create systemic change. Along the way, he skewers those pointing fingers, celebrates those who are trying, and offers practical pathways to start making a difference. We're All Climate Hypocrites Now covers:

• How environmentalism lost its groove

• Why big polluters love to talk about your carbon footprint

• The psychology of shaming

• How businesses can find their activist voice

• The true power of individuals to spark widespread change.

By identifying our greatest leverage, we can prioritize our actions, target the powerful, and build common ground with millions of other imperfect individuals to actually change the system.

Sami Grover is an environmental writer and branding specialist. He's written about everything from composting to e-bikes to international climate politics. Active in the sphere of good-for-the-world business, he has developed branding projects for clients including Burt's Bees, Dogwood Alliance, and Jada Pinkett Smith. Sami currently serves as brand development manager for The Redwoods Group, and lives in Durham, NC. He has three compost bins, and also still occasionally eats steak.