Environmental Science

Frank R. Spellman is the author or co-author of more than 70 books on the natural sciences, as well as environmental and health sciences. He has served as a consultant for the U.S. Department of Justice, a variety of law firms, and a number of non-governmental organizations on environmental issues and health-related matters. He is formerly an assistant professor of environmental health at Old Dominion University.Melissa L. Stoudt is a radiation controls training instructor at an atomic power laboratory. Previously, she instructed students and officers of the US Navy in proper radiation controls and handling of radioactive material. She is coauthor of Nuclear Infrastructure Protection and Homeland Security (Scarecrow Press 2011).

This volume—arranged into 5 parts and 18 chapters—provides a thorough introduction to the study of environmental science and its many related fields of study. Each chapter begins with a short quote or anecdote, a list of chapter objectives and an outline, a list of key terms, and an introduction to the subject at hand. The first of the five sections focuses on providing foundational knowledge critical to the study and understanding of environmental science, while the following sections focus more closely on air quality, water quality, soil science, and solid and hazardous waste. Each chapter closes with a short summary, a list of suggested discussion questions and problems, a list of suggested research topics and projects, notes, and a list of references and recommended reading. Black and-white images and illustrations are included throughout the text. The charts and illustrations are generally useful. 'Did You Know?' boxes appear through the book to highlight key information and quick facts. Boxed sections featuring 'Response Scenarios' offer sample situations as well as suggested questions to prompt further thought and discussion. 'Case Studies' also appear in shaded boxes and offer real-world examples of relevant topics. The text concludes with a comprehensive glossary and an index. The authors provide a balanced discussion of the practices by humans that are harmful to the environment while also presenting possible solutions. Intended for undergraduate students and general readers, this set would be a worthwhile resource for academic and public libraries. High-school libraries where AP classes on environmental science are taught would also find this volume to be useful.