Introduction, life, water

Humphreys, David and Clark, Nigel and Smith, Sandy and Jehlicka, Petr and Bingham, Nick, eds. (2013) Introduction, life, water. Environment: Sharing a dynamic planet . Open University, Milton Keynes. ISBN 9781780073262

Abstract

What are the biophysical and social causes of environmental change? What exactly is an environmental issue and why are these issues often controversial and difficult to resolve? And how can we make a difference? This book begins to address these questions by using a series of case studies to introduce the key ideas and analytical concepts. It then explores in detail two key global environmental concerns: life (focusing in particular on how human lifestyles can place biological life at risk) and water (focusing on the problems associated with delivering water security). Throughout the book, a distinctive interdisciplinary way of thinking about environments and environmental issues is developed, one which draws on the insights of both the natural and social sciences in a way that is both intellectually innovative and practically relevant.