Global Environment: Problems and Policies (Set of 5 Vols.): Problems and Policies (Set of 4 Vols)

Some major developments witnessed during the 20th century have greatly impacted human beings as well as the planet Earth—the only known planet to support life. Incalculable harm is being caused to natural habitats, eco-systems and environment by unprecedented growth in population resulting in great rise in consumption; rapid increase in urbanization and industrialisation; dramatic changes in global economic environment; and reckless use of mineral and forest resources, etc. It is ironical that some of the achievements of the 20th century themselves pose the challenges for the present 21st century. As of 2008, the world population has reached 6.66 billion. According to data from the CIA’s World Fact Book (2007), world human population increases by 211,090 people every day. With 6.66 billion people inhabiting this earth, and the global economy over the next 25 years could expand from 35 trillion in 2005 to $72 trillion in 2030 (World Bank). Such high pace of human and economic activity is putting pressure on global life support systems. Many symptoms of environmental crises illustrate what can go wrong if resources are used in ways that cause environmental damage.