Today we are focused on saving a world slammed by a global pandemic. Fifty years ago, people took to the streets on the first Earth Day to try to save the world itself.

In this midst of today’s turmoil, National Geographic is exploring a deeper question: What kind of world will we have on the 100th anniversary of Earth Day, just 50 years from now?

Both optimists and pessimists believe we are at some kind of turning point, where action (or inaction) will push us along one path or another. Nat Geo’s latest issue includes compelling essays written from each point of view.

What’s the glass-half-full take? Writer Emma Marris cites increased efficiencies in cars, solar, wind energy, and battery storage as