Living in the Environment: Principles, Connections, and Solutions

CENTRAL THEME OF SUSTAINABILITY: Three clearly explained principles of sustainability (solar energy, chemical cycling, and biodiversity) are integrated throughout every chapter and take students through the practical steps they can take toward more sustainable lifestyles. Icons highlight sustainability throughout the text.
CONCEPT-CENTERED APPROACH: To help students focus on the main ideas, each major chapter section is built around one to two key concepts which state the most important take-away messages of each chapter.
PERSONAL RELEVANCE: "What Can You Do?" boxes describe how students can make a difference and "How Would You Vote?" questions give them an opportunity to think critically about issues. "Solutions" subsections present proven and possible solutions for students to explore and "Individuals Matter" boxes describe what various concerned citizens and scientists have done to help work toward sustainability.
REAL DATA: Each chapter includes a quantitative Data Analysis or Ecological Footprint Analysis exercise. Data Analysis exercises include graphs and real-life data that students refer to directly to answer quantitative questions. Ecological Footprint Analysis exercises focus on human impact through analysis of emissions data, population data, and other current real-life statistics.
OBJECTIVE COVERAGE: A strong emphasis on scientific objectivity and the need for non-biased solutions is a hallmark of the text. "Trade-Offs" boxes present advantages and disadvantages of various environmental technologies and solutions to environmental problems. Learn how to make a difference in our environment! Using sustainability as the central theme, this current and thought-provoking book provides you with basic scientific tools for understanding and thinking critically about the environment and the environmental problems we face. Updated with new information, art, and "Good News" examples, this engaging book offers vivid case studies an More »