Earth Systems: Processes and Issues

The ideal introductory textbook for any course at the first-year university level which touches upon environmental issues or earth systems science.

'This is a unique textbook ... as a general, introductory, integrated treatment of the earth sciences as a process oriented subject it is without peer in the current market. I recommend you put this book at the top of your list of readings in the Earth Sciences this year whether you are an educator presenting an introductory course or an experienced professional ion need of a reality check.' William A. Berggren, Episodes

'Ernst has done an admirable job editing an extensive list of chapters written by a group of international experts. What we have here is a book stuffed full of useful information that essentially focuses on today's Earth System.' Sean Mulshaw, Geoscientist

'With the appearance of Earth Systems: Processes and Issues, edited by geologist Gary Ernst, a distinguished group of scientists have brought earth-system science into focus for students and professionals alike. The volume is an elegant and at times exciting introduction to the aims, methods, and results arising from earth-system studies. I recommend it strongly.' Dr Brian J. Skinner, Yale University

'... an excellent perspective on earth system science and the principles of the interdisciplinary subject matter that are relevant to questions and problems dealing with the global environment and environmental change, natural and human-induced. Ernst has brought together an excellent group of scholars with a great deal of teaching experience as well as stature in the field as researchers to write the book. I certainly will use parts of the book ... '. Fred Mackenzie, University of Hawaii, Manoa

'... presented at a level suitable for undergraduates and made easy to understand by the clarity of the writing and meticulous editing. The 28 contributors are internationally recognized as experts in their fields, and their individual chapters have been skillfully coordinated and cross-referenced to each other. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter give students an opportunity to examine their understanding and to form their own opinions. The book should be useful both to science students and to non-science students who want to know the scientific basis of discussions about such topics as global warming, future availability of resources, biodiversity, population growth, and environmental degradation.' John J. W. Rogers, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

'This is a textbook for introductory courses in Earth systems science and environmental science at first year university level ... its content is highly accessible.' John Brenner, OUGS Journal

'The book succeeds to a great extent in providing an integrated overview of the planet's interactive systems and makes us ponder on what should be done to conserve and enrich the fragile ecosystem and the climate of the planet earth with its rich and diverse plant, animal and land forms ... although written for introductory courses for fist year university students, the book could well serve as a primer for planners, bureaucrats and decision-makers all over the world.' World Meteorological Organization Bulletin

'... an important and valuable publication for anyone studying the Earth's ecosystem and the many interacting sub-systems that affect it. It is not only an enlightening book but it is also an invaluable source of reference. It can be recommended on both counts.' Richard Taylor, Spaceflight