Museums and the Natural Environment

This volume in a series looks at the structure and role of museums, in the light of the impact of environmental issues, thus bringing together the current debates surrounding the environment and museums. Peter Davis covers a wide range of topics. Outlining the historical issues that inform the relevant debates, he looks at the traditional roles played by museums and environmental organizations, and asks how successful any "partnership of ideas" of the two has been, and the path it should take in the future. He goes on to look at issues such as biodiversity in relation to scientific collection; the role of contemporary displays and the need for new techniques and interdisciplinary approaches; and the success and future development of environmental education. In his provision of case studies, he encourages a wider perspective on specific topics such as the Cevennes eco-museums. For anyone interested in how "green" museums have traditionally, are at present, and should be in the future, this book should be useful reading.