Gregory Wood

Sensing Chicago: noisemakers, strikebreakers, and muckrakers

of employers and limited government support. Hampton notes that although the impact of environmental reps has been limited, their ability to mobilise workers demonstrates the potential opportunity to break free of the ‘self-limiting doctrine of partnership’ (p. 142). Examining the Vestas occupation of 2009, Hampton argues that it demonstrates the potential for networks and partnerships beyond which those unions have traditionally cultivated. Of particular significance is the way the occupation ‘made it clear that very different types of environmentalism were present’ (p. 174). Recognition of the value of new partnerships with such actors may present an opportunity for unions to enhance their role. Both chapters make the different approaches taken within the union movement clear and argue for the need to recognise these diverse positions. This book presents a valuable argument for recognising the potential contribution of workers and trade unions in efforts to address climate change. The connection between workers and the environment is represented in the reality that ‘commodification of labour power and the “free gifts of nature” ... are the parallel processes through which capitalism simultaneously exploits labour while imperilling the biosphere’ (p. 186). In presenting a class-based approach Hampton identifies ways in which these power relations can be recognised and potentially challenged. Addressing the ideals of social movement unionism in more depth could have provided a useful contrast with more traditional union structures and point to areas of evolving practice. Similarly, the role of environmentalists as potential partners could have been further developed, identifying areas of common ground in terms of tactics and interests. The book will be of interest to researchers in the field of labour politics, as well as those focused on environmental politics and social movements.