Modeling the Environment: An Introduction To System Dynamics Modeling Of Environmental Systems - Softcover

Ford, Andrew

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1559636017 ISBN 13: 9781559636018

Publisher: Island Press, 1999

Synopsis

Modeling the Environment is the first introductory textbook for a technique of rapidly growing importance. It requires little or no mathematical background, and is appropriate for undergraduate environmental students as well as professionals new to modelling. Developed from the author's own introductory course, it is classroom-tested and represents an important contribution to the field of system dynamics.Modeling techniques that allow managers and researchers to see in advance the consequences of actions and policies are becoming increasingly important to environmental management. The models produced are vital analytical tools that aid the policy-setting and implementation process, and help us to understand how environmental systems respond to management interventions.Modeling the Environment is a basic introduction to one of the most widely known and used modeling techniques, system dynamics. The book is designed to build the skills of students as they progress from learning fundamental ideas to constructing models of increasing complexity. Written in a clear and comprehensible style, the book: presents basic concepts of modeling using system dynamics illustrates the mechanics of model construction through a range of working models offers a rich array of exercises for students to use in applying the principles and techniques described in the text walks students through the design and application of models of specific types of environmental systemsIn addition, the book contains more than 300 figures and model illustrations, and provides a guide to an interactive website where students can use the text to "navigate" management flight simulators – models of both real and hypothetical systems developed by the author. The book also contains appendixes that help students review the necessary math, and which provide additional concepts and exercises for further study.

About this title

About the Author

Andrew Ford is professor of environmental science at Washington State University, where he teaches system dynamics modeling. He has developed a wide range of models dealing with energy and environmental policy. His simulation of uncertainty in dynamic models was honored with the Jay Wright Forrester Award as an outstanding contribution to the field of system dynamics.

Review

". . . written in a clear and interesting way, mixing theory with environmental applications, and well-illustrated with a range of maps and diagrams to help enhance underanding. . .. This is an excellent book and very comprehensive. . ." (System Dynamics Review)

"Modeling the Environment is an impressive book bringing the power of system dynamics to bear on the streses caused by human expansion into a limited world." (Jay W. Forrester Professor Emeritus, Massachusetts Institute of Technology)

"The writing style is engaging and clear. . . the author injects throughout insightful comments and modeling strategy that will be of interest to a wide range of readers." (Environment)

Edition details

• Publisher: Island Press
• Publication date: 1999
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1559636017
• ISBN 13: 9781559636018
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 415