Living with the Planet: Making a Difference in a Time of Climate Change [Paperback]

Catherine von Ruhland (Author), Peter Wadhams (Foreword)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 1, 2009

Taking a step back from minor problems to investigate larger global issues, this hard-hitting guide offers an in-depth investigation into worldwide environmental troubles. Beginning with an overview of the Earth, its atmosphere, and its oceans, a detailed look at each continent is the provided that covers such pertinent concerns as global warming, deforestation, resource exploitation, and threatened wildlife. A helpful section at the end of each chapter offers a wealth of suggestions on what can be done to make a remedy or reverse current trends. Fully illustrated with maps and photographs from around the globe, this vital resource addresses the current state and perilous future of our precious planet.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Adult/High School—Von Ruhland provides a wide-angle snapshot of the environmental condition of the Earth. She makes the case that acting locally is not going to be enough to turn climate change around, that we must demand international solutions to international problems. The author argues that human demands for energy, meat, milk, and water are contributing to environmental crisis and that fast-industrializing countries such as Brazil and China are accelerating it. The organization of the book makes for ease of use for student researchers. The chapters move from the Earth's atmosphere to the oceans and to each of the continents. The most pressing issues are discussed, including ozone depletion; rising sea levels and temperatures; the expanding Sahara Desert causing drought, famine, and political chaos in Africa; the disappearance of permafrost in Europe; the increase of weather-related "natural" disasters such as Hurricane Katrina in North America; loss of rainforest in South America; and more. Each chapter features a portrait of an environmental activist such as Rachel Carson and Chico Mendes. These portraits not only pay tribute to their contributions, but also serve to remind readers that well-informed, passionate individuals can make a difference. Each chapter ends with a list of recommendations for improving the environment. The majority tend toward the tame: consult this or that Web site, eat more Brazil nuts, etc. The book is illustrated with stunningly beautiful nature photographs as well as horrifying pictures of environmental disasters. Extensive bibliographical references and a useful index are appended.—Paula Dacker, Charter Oak High School, CA
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About the Author

Catherine von Ruhland has worked as a journalist and writer specializing in environmental issues for more than 20 years. She is the author of Louder than Words and Prayers from the Edge. Peter Wadhams is a professor of ocean physics and the author of Ice in the Ocean.

Product Details

• Paperback: 224 pages
• Publisher: Lion UK (March 1, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0745952550
• ISBN-13: 978-0745952550
• Product Dimensions: 8.6 x 6.1 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,860,344 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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