Encyclopedia of Environmental Studies (Facts on File Science Library)

Defines terms dealing with botany, economics, chemistry, ecology, biology, geography, and geology, and identifies important organizations, individuals, and events.

Due to the cross-disciplinary nature of the environmental sciences, selection of a specific term for inclusion in an environmental encyclopedia becomes a judgment call. This encyclopedia is strong in earth science, chemistry, and forestry, but not as strong in gardening and issues affecting the average homeowner. For instance, "epilimnion," "cytotoxin," and "salvage cutting" are discussed, but not "organic farming," "radon," or "compost." Michael Allaby's Dictionary of the Envi ronment (New York Univ. Pr., 1989. 3d ed.) has a more popular approach and does include, for instance, the latter three terms. Ashworth's reference includes numerous entries for associations, but unlike Dictionary of the Environment , does not cover specific events such as Chernobyl. Even terms promised in the catalog copy for the book--"Three Mile Island," for instance--are not included. This reference may have some value, however, for research collections.
- Susan McKimm, Cuyahoga Cty. P.L., Cleveland
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.