Book Overview

This book applies system theory to analyze the operation and structure of the complex earth surface system, including the interactions between society and nature that cause environmental degradation and threats to human populations.

Objectives and Focus

The possible ways to harmonize the operation of a global society as a complex system using the United Nations sustainable development goals are investigated, as well as the major efforts currently implemented to achieve this objective and why many are unsuccessful.

Learning Approach

Readers will learn this material through case studies that assess the essential conditions required to occupy a planet sustainably, and examine the complex interactions between society and nature in the atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and outer layers of the lithosphere.

Intended Audience

The book is written for undergraduate students in geography, earth sciences, environmental sciences, and ecology, and will also appeal to environmental agency employees, nature protection representatives, teachers, and researchers.