Essentials of Ecology

“Inspiring people to care about the planet.” In the new edition of ESSENTIALS OF ECOLOGY, authors Tyler Miller and Scott Spoolman have partnered with the National Geographic Society to develop a text designed to equip students with the inspiration and knowledge they need to make a difference solving today’s environmental issues. Exclusive content highlights important work of National Geographic Explorers, and features over 100 new photos, maps, and illustrations that bring course concepts to life. Using sustainability as the integrating theme, ESSENTIALS OF ECOLOGY 7e, covers scientific principles and concepts, ecosystems, evolution, biodiversity, population ecology, and more. In addition to the integration of new and engaging National Geographic content, every chapter has been thoroughly updated and 6 new Core Case Studies offer current examples of environmental problems and scenarios for potential solutions. The concept-centered approach used in the text transforms complex environmental topics and issues into key concepts that students will understand and remember. Overall, by framing the concepts with goals for more sustainable lifestyles and human communities, students see how promising the future can be and their important role in shaping it.

G. Tyler Miller has written 65 editions of textbooks for introductory courses in environmental science, basic ecology, energy and environmental chemistry. Since 1975, his books have been among the most widely used textbooks for environmental science in the United States and throughout the world. Translated into eight languages, they have been used by more than 3 million students. Dr. Miller has a professional background in chemistry, physics and ecology. He taught college for 20 years, developed one of the nation's first environmental studies programs and created an innovative interdisciplinary undergraduate science program before deciding to write environmental science textbooks full time in 1975. Now retired, Dr. Miller created Earth Education and Research, an enterprise that was devoted to improving environmental education. He has a Ph.D. from the University of Virginia and has received honorary doctoral degrees in recognition of his significant contributions to environmental education.

Scott Spoolman is an experienced writer in the field of educational publishing, with more than 30 years of expertise. Between 2003 and 2018, he worked with Tyler Miller as a co-author on editions of LIVING IN THE ENVIRONMENT, ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE and SUSTAINING THE EARTH. With Norman Myers, he co-authored ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES AND SOLUTIONS: A MODULAR APPROACH. Spoolman has authored numerous books and articles in the fields of environmental science, geology and natural history, politics and business. Additionally, he has served as a consulting editor, contributing to the development of over 70 college and high school textbooks in the natural and social sciences. He earned a master's degree in science journalism from the University of Minnesota. In his free time, Spoolman enjoys exploring the forests and waters of his native Wisconsin along with his family -- his wife, environmental educator Gail Martinelli, son Will and daughter Katie.