Books in Sustainable World series

This title explores the differences between non-renewable and sustainable energy sources. It provides clear connections between energy consumption and global warming, pollution, high gas prices, taxes, and human health. Global in scope, small in scale, it offers students the tools to explore how they can be a part of the efforts toward more efficient energy alternatives.

All life on earth is interdependent and depends on its environment to survive. When part of an ecosystem is destroyed or damaged it has a knock on effect on the plants, animals and people who form part of it. Human impact on environments and wildlife is causing environmental problems such as pollution, energy consumption, deforestation and climate change. If these issues are not addressed then it could spell disaster for the Earth. Sustainable development - meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs - offers a viable solution to environmental problems. Using examples from around the world, this book will show how sustainable development can help us to work with environments and not against them. It also suggests some choices the reader can make to ensure a sustainable future. 'Databank' boxes give key facts, 'Opinion' panels highlight quotes from well-known speakers on the subject. There are also weblinks with useful website addresses which link to sites with more information about a particular topic.

We use energy every day; from powering our vehicles and factories to heating and lighting our homes, schools and offices. These needs are met mainly by stores of energy, such as coal and oil, which were built up over millions of years. Today, we are using these stores very rapidly, much faster than they can be replaced or renewed. These sources of energy are also very polluting and are known to contribute to global warming. This book considers examples from across the world that show there are alternative, sustainable ways to provide energy, without damaging the environment. These alternatives are known as sustainable energy, or renewable sources, and their use is growing rapidly as people become aware of the dangers of ignoring the energy problem. It also suggests some choices the reader can make to ensure a sustainable future. 'Databank' boxes give key facts, 'Opinion' panels highlight quotes from well-known speakers on the subject. There are also weblinks with useful website addresses which link to sites with more information about a particular topic.