Environmental Science

The goal of this book is to provide an up-to-date, introductory view of essential themes in environmental science along with emphasis on details and case studies that will help students process and retain the general principles.

This book is designed to be useful as a self-education tool for students. To facilitate studying and encourage higher-level thinking, each chapter begins with a set of Objectives based on major concepts that students should master, and a listing of ESP CD-ROM Topics that are chapter-related. A short Opening Story, taken from recent news events, follows, setting the subject in context and illuminating the importance of the material to be discussed. Key Terms, indicated by boldfaced type, are defined in context where they are first used and are also listed in the Glossary for quick reference.

Case Studies, "In Depth" Boxes, and "What Do You Think" Essays, many with "Ethical Considerations" attached, five students real-life examples to evaluate and a chance to practice critical thinking skills and formulate reasoned opinions. These boxes are carefully planned to build upon chapter content and are long enough to present important, real information. The "What Can You Do?" Listings help student to learn that small, individual steps can make a real difference in affecting our environment.

Profiles of ordinary people in environmental careers are scattered throughout the text. Giving students models with whom they can identify will help them consider how they might pursue a career in an environmental area.

At the end of each chapter, a Summary and a set of Questions for Review provide an opportunity for students to test their understanding of the material just covered, while Questions for Critical Thinking are designed to stimulate creative, analytical thinking and to serve as a springboard for class discussions. Additional Information on the Internet lists import chapter topics for which there are hyperlinks, available on the accompanying website, to help students with study and research.

Contents

• Learning to Learn

• 1 Understanding Our Environment
• 2 Environmental Ethics and Philosophy
• 3 Matter, Energy, and Life
• 4 Biological Communities and Species Interaction
• 5 Biomes, Landscapes, Restoration, and Management

• 6 Population Dynamics
• 7 Human Populations
• 8 Ecological Economics
• 9 Environmental Health and Toxicology

• 10 Environmental Policy, Law, and Planning
• 11 Food and Agriculture
• 12 Pest Control
• 13 Biodiversity
• 14 Land Use: Forest and Rangelands
• 15 Preserving Nature

• 16 Environmental Geology
• 17 Air, Weather, and Climate
• 18 Air Pollution
• 19 Water Use and Management
• 20 Water Pollution
• 21 Conventional Energy
• 22 Sustainable Energy

• 23 Solid, Toxic, and Hazardous Waste
• 24 Urbanization and Sustainable Cities
• 25 What Then Shall We Do?