New Book Release: Energy Revolutions in the Anthropocene

Shigeru Akita and Noriko Chikumoto (eds.)
Energy Revolutions in the Anthropocene: From Biomass to Fusion Energy
(Minerva Shobo, February 2026, 256 pages, ¥3,200)

The “Anthropocene” has been proposed as a concept describing a new geological epoch in which human activities have exerted a significant impact on the Earth’s geology and ecosystems. Within this framework, the “energy system” is positioned as a central element. This book examines the historical evolution of energy in both human and Earth history from a long-term perspective, with particular attention to the “Great Acceleration.”

Through an exploration of successive energy transitions—from biomass to coal, oil, nuclear and renewable energy, and ultimately to fusion and hydrogen energy—the book reconsiders their historical significance and their impact on contemporary society.

This volume is based on the six-part lecture series “Energy, Anthropocene, and Environment,” held from September 2024 at the Matrix Co-Creation Center, Institute of Laser Engineering, The University of Osaka. It represents the outcome of interdisciplinary and international collaborative research.

In addition, Ryosuke Kodama, Director of the Institute of Laser Engineering at The University of Osaka, contributes a chapter from the perspective of laser fusion, discussing new energy paradigms and their future potential in the 21st century.
Bringing together insights from history, economics, energy engineering, and international relations, this book offers a new perspective on contemporary energy challenges. We hope it will reach a wide readership.