Terrestial ecosystems comprise just 29 percent of the Earth's surface, yet this is where almost all human life resides, grows food and draws the raw materials for existence. This book explores the long-term dynamics of these dry land ecosystems, stretching back 20,000 years, in order to better understand and anticipate the impact of climate change and human activities.
"The human race has now moved into the driving seat of all terrestial ecosystems and the control panel is complex," the authors point out. "There is no owner's manual and several systems are already careening out of control. There is an urgent need to understand these controls and to use our power wisely."
The book's 10 chapters describe the models used to interpret the dynamics of climate and living species, exploring the historic record of ecosystems and the implications of societal change. Directed toward students of environmental sciences, in particular, it also provides land use professionals, policy makers and researchers critical guidance for the sustainable management of terrestial ecosystems.
