ANNA LEWINGTON

In a world dominated by technological change, it is easy to forget the importance of plants: they feed us, clothe us, clean us, protect us, cure us, transport us and entertain us. Every day, plants play a fundamental role in our lives. "Plants for People" gives us an insight into the countless, often surprising ways in which we use plants - from the woodpulp in our clothing and the soya in fast food, to new medicines from daffodil bulbs (for Alzheimer's), yew leaves and hazel nuts (for cancers), and sunflower and rape seeds providing cleaner fuel for our cars. Plants are essential to our lives, yet the ways in which we manage them are seriously harming people and environments worldwide. "Plants for People" considers practical and ethical issues such as organic production, bio-piracy and the Fairtrade movement. Its mission: to help us save the diversity of plant life on earth, and to treat as equals the millions of people whose knowledge and services support us every day.