Description
Book SynopsisStrongly grounded in the scientific method and evidence, The Environment: Science, Issues, and Solutions presents an organized, accessible, building block approach that introduces the principles of ecology. This book examines the effects of technology use and the unprecedented economic growth and development that has tipped the natural balance of the environment, resulting in serious local, regional, and global environmental problems. This comprehensive text explores the need for interrelated long-term solutions for the prevention and mitigation of environmental problems.
Trade Review"… good guide to comprehend processes, problems and solutions related to the environment. Every chapter is accompanied by figures, illustrations, maps and exercises to provide a better understanding of this important topic."—D. A. Pinilla, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
Table of ContentsEcosystem Structure and Function. The Environment and the Nature of Scientific Enquiry. Biosphere and the Science of Ecology. Atmosphere, Climate, and Organisms. The Soil Environment. The Aquatic Environment. Biogeochemical Cycling of Materials. Energy Flows and Ecosystem Productivity. Population Ecology. Community Ecology and Succession. Biomes—the Major Ecosystems of the World. Contemporary Environmental Issues. Human Population Growth. Land Use—Agriculture. Land Use—Forest Resources. Land Use—Mining for Mineral and Coal Resources. Land Use—Urbanization and Transportation. Water Resources—Quantity and Quality. Fuel Energy. Air Quality and Stratospheric Ozone. The Greenhouse Effect and Climate Change. Biological Diversity Loss and the March of Invasive Species. Seeking Solutions. Environmental Policy and Law. Economic Systems, Growth, and Development. Environmental Management. Restoration of Disturbed Ecosystems. Conservation of Biological Diversity and Natural Resources. Sustainable Development.References. Glossary.
