The Environment

This book investigates the ways in which the environment has been shaped by man and how it is being destroyed. It puts the current conditions into historical and political perspective, and discusses ways of reversing the destructive trends. Having introduced the key concepts of "environment" and "ecosystem" the author considers factors, such as the need for food and energy, which have led to changes in the environment, and problems of expanding populations, pollution, deforestation and soil erosion which have damaged the land and have put pressure on the world's resources. Finally, the author looks at ways of managing natural resources and technology both to protect the environment and to improve the quality of life. As part of the World issues series, this book aims to raise levels of awareness and to promote independent thought on contemporary question s.