Global warming is a given, writes UCLA economist Matthew Kahn in his new book, "Climatopolis: How Our Cities Will Thrive in the Hotter Future." But Kahn's perspective on this isn't gloomy: He says we could flourish in warmer climes. With pop-culture-friendly references sprinkled throughout, the book examines what weather patterns will look like across the nation in the next 50 to 60 years.

Kahn creates optimistic blueprints for how life might unfold in 2070. He imagines New York City-style high rises by the beach, ponders whether koi ponds are the best use of our water supply, and considers whether moats should be built around the mansions of Malibu. He writes of making the most of it and of happy endings — not what we're used to reading in works on global warming.

To read the full Q&A in the Los Angeles Times click here.

Published: Monday, September 20, 2010

  Write to Us

The UCLA Institute of the Environment and Sustainability welcomes your comments.