Table of Contents

Preface; Introduction; 1. First things; 2. The ecological framework; 3. The health of populations; 4. System overload: ancient and modern; 5. Population increase, poverty and health; 6. Greenhouse warming and climate change; 7. The thinning ozone layer; 8. Soil and water: loaves and fishes; 9. Biodiversity: forests, food and pharmaceuticals; 10. The growth of cities; 11. Impediments I: conceptual blocks; 12. Impediments II: relationships; 13. The way ahead; Glossary; Index.

Promotional Information

A significant and important survey of global change and its serious impact on human health.

Reviews

'... a remarkably comprehensive book on the threats to man of environmental change ... A book to read now, for the 21st century.' David Sharp, The Lancet '... everyone who is concerned about leaving a negative legacy to future generations should read this book.' Ecology 'This is a book relating in a lucid and convincing way how the fabric of life-supporting mechanisms of our planet is starting to unravel. Teacher or student, scientist or nonscientist, health or environmental scientist - all can learn from Planetary Overload about the issues that face our species and its institutions.' American Journal of Epidemiology 'Planetary Overload is a thought-provoking, excellent addition to the literature on global environmental health issues for medical and public health students as well as for practising environmental and health professionals.' Medicine & Global Survival 'Planetary Overload is skilfully written: an accomplished, eclectic book which draws fruitfully on historical, biological, ecological and epidemiological knowledge. This is certainly a challenging and erudite book and very worth reading.' Epidemiology Unit