Geosphere (Hardcover)

People exploit the land for desired resources, such as oil, minerals, or timber, or they convert vast expanses of natural terrain to landscapes that better meet their needs: Forests become tree plantations, wilderness is converted to agricultural land, and even farms are paved over to make cities. Already about half the ice-free land area has been converted for human purposes, and that number is growing rapidly. Geosphere is an invaluable new resource that introduces students to sustainability - the idea that economic and social development, along with environmental protection, must be achieved together. Enhanced by illuminating full-color photographs and illustrations, sidebars, a glossary, and other useful study features, this book details how sustainability is gaining ground with individuals, communities, regions, and even nations, and shows readers how they, too, can become involved.