Climate Change - Past, Present & Future: A Very Short Guide (Paleontological Research Institution Sp

Climate change will likely be the major environmental - and perhaps economic and social - issue of the twenty-first century. It is controversial, confusing, and hugely important. Intended for students, teachers, and general readers, this book is a concise, user-friendly handbook that addresses the major features of the science behind this very complex topic. The authors explain - clearly and with a minimum of jargon - the basis for the three central conclusions of modern climate science: that the Earth is warming, that humans are mainly responsible, and that these changes will be extremely challenging for humans to deal with. "This splendid little guide to understanding climate change has all the key ingredients: the science, how science works, and the implications .... and belongs in every household and every classroom. It should be required reading reference material for a responsible citizenry." - Thomas E. Lovejoy, Biodiversity Chair, The Heinz Center for Science, Economics and the Environment