Softcover

ISBN 10: 0130651729 ISBN 13: 9780130651723

Publisher: Prentice Hall, 2002

This book offers a general, interdisciplinary discussion of global environmental change oriented toward the non-specialist in science. The unifying theme of the book is consideration of aspects of both natural and human-induced global environmental change. The two part organization according to this distinction allows for easy reading on specific topics. This book is useful for anyone interested in learning more about Earth's systems.

From the Publisher:

Presents an interdisciplinary discussion of global environmental change for the non-specialist in science. Provides a balanced, unified examination of the dynamic between natural change and human-induced change in the global environment. Explored first are the natural planetary systems at work (the natural exogenic systems of Earth), providing insightful coverage emphasizing the historical (geological) perspective on change as it discusses processes and change in the lithosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and the biosphere systems. A detailed discussion of how human activities are influence these natural systems and the consequences that may result for ecosystems, humans and human infrastructures are provided. Areas of concern and interest include: deforestation, population and resource consumption, stratospheric ozone depletion, water usage and quality, global climatic change. The text concludes with a thought-provoking, prescriptive epilogue on the need for a new environmentally sustaining societal perspective. The first synthesis of the subject on a general level help it stand out as the new authoritative standard for engaging and accessible coverage.

From the Back Cover:

The unifying theme of Our Changing Planet is consideration of aspects of both natural and human-induced global environmental change. Part I deals with the natural exogenic system of Earth. It emphasizes the historical (geologic) perspective of change and discusses processes and change in the lithosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere systems. Part II demonstrates how human activities influence the natural system and the consequences of human-induced change for ecosystems, humans, and human infrastructures.