Ecological Numeracy
Quantitative Analysis of Environmental Issues

Robert A. Herendeen (Author)

9780471183099, Wiley

Paperback / softback, published 27 April 1998

360 pages
23.3 x 15.5 x 2.4 cm, 0.508 kg

Master the fundamental math skills necessary to quantify andevaluate a broad range of environmental questions.

Environmental issues are often quantitative--how much land, howmany people, what amount of pollution. Computer programs areuseful, but there is no substitute for being able to use a simplecalculation to slice through to the crux of the problem. Having agrasp of how the factors interact and whether the results makesense allows one to explain and argue a point of view forcefully todiverse audiences.

With an engaging, down-to-earth style and practical problem-solvingapproach, Ecological Numeracy makes it easy to understand andmaster basic mathematical concepts and techniques that areapplicable to life-cycle assessment, energy consumption, land use,pollution generation, and a broad range of other environmentalissues. Robert Herendeen brings the numbers to life with dozens offascinating, often entertaining examples and problems.

Requiring only a moderate quantitative background, EcologicalNumeracy is a superb introduction for advanced undergraduatestudents in environmental science, planning, geography, andphysical and natural sciences. It is also a valuable professionalresource for environmental managers, regulators, andadministrators.

Context and Acclimatization.

Contributions to Environmental Impact: Analyzing the Components ofChange.

Consequences of Exponential (Geometric) Growth.

End-Use Analysis and Predicting Future Demand.

Economic Considerations, Discount Rates, and Benefit-CostAnalysis.

Limits.

Dynamics, Stocks and Flows, Age Class Effects.

Indirect Effects.

Shared Resources and the Tragedy of the Commons.

The Automobile: A Powerful Problem.

Ecological Economics and Sustainability.

Thermodynamics and Energy Efficiency.

Appendices.

References.

Index.

Subject Areas: Civil engineering, surveying & building [TN]