Biodiversity under Threat (Issues in Environmental Science and Technology) [Hardcover]

Ronald E. Hester (Editor), Roy M. Harrison (Editor)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0854042512 | ISBN-13: 978-0854042517 | Publication Date: August 2, 2007 | Edition: 1

Editors and authors present an overview of the threats to global biodiversity posed by human-induced changes. Among the threats explored are industrial pollution, changes in agricultural practices, and climate change. In addition, the book examines the policy responses needed to protect biodiversity. Numerous illustrative examples help you better understand the impact of the many threats to biodiversity and the effects of remedial efforts.

Editorial Reviews

Review

Biodiversity for Chemists

Biodiversity under threat 

R.E. Hester and R.M. Harrison (Eds.)
Cambridge, UK, RSC Publishing 2007, |272pp., ISBN 978-0-85404-251-7 

Reviewed by Dennis Rouvray

At first glance it may seem odd that the Royal Society of Chemistry has brought out a book on biodiversity, as this is a topic of seemingly little relevance to chemistry. More mature reflection, however, quickly reveals that this subject has everything to do with chemistry, most notably because biodiversity is all about the maintenance and expression of the chemical information stored in the DNA molecules that form the genes in living species. 

It has taken millions of years for these precious little bundles of information to evolve into their present state and if for any reason they are lost they are quite simply irreplaceable. Unfortunately such loss is now occurring with increasing frequency. Since 1600 no less than 784 different species has been recorded as extinct, and currently over 700 other species are either endangered, vulnerable or conservation-dependent. As the richness of our genetic inheritance becomes ever more diminished, there are likely to be some severe consequences for our own species.  

The present book provides a very valuable introduction into environmental science and technology in general, and biodiversity in particular, for those who are not specialists in this area. It explains with admirable clarity the major issues now confronting us and goes on to outline a number of possible solutions. It points out, for instance, that to maintain biodiversity we need to work simultaneously not only on genetic biodiversity but also species and ecosystem biodiversity. 

The book satisfactorily covers many hot topics, including the loss of biodiversity in our tropical forests, in the oceans and in the insect kingdom. It also takes a critical look at current agricultural practices, the extensive use of fertilisers, and ever increasing habitat destruction.  

This is a timely, thoughtful and authoritative account of the current state of play on the ecological battlefront. 

Chemistry World. 2008. 5(1), p.p. 64-65

Book Description

There is much public concern about threats to global biodiversity. Industrial pollution, changes in agricultural practices and climate change, are all having a direct impact on biodiversity. In this book the Editors provide a broad view of the many threats to global biodiversity imposed by human-induced changes and an overview of the policy responses required to combat them. This excellent text includes the work of some 44 authors and offers a solid description of the current understanding of threats to biodiversity with a range of illustrative examples - a valuable point of reference for ecologists, environmental scientists, and students as well as, policymakers and all other environmental professionals.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Hardcover: 214 pages
• Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry; 1 edition (August 2, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0854042512
• ISBN-13: 978-0854042517
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 6.5 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #4,095,216 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)