Island Environments in a Changing World

by Lawrence R. Walker , Peter Bellingham

• ISBN13: 9780521519601
• ISBN10: 0521519608
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2011-05-09
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Summary

Islands represent unique opportunities to examine human interaction with the natural environment. They capture the human imagination as remote, vulnerable and exotic, yet there is comparatively little understanding of their basic geology, geography, or the impact of island colonization by plants, animals and humans. This detailed study of island environments focuses on nine island groups, including Hawaii, New Zealand and the British Isles, exploring their differing geology, geography, climate and soils, as well as the varying effects of human actions. It illustrates the natural and anthropogenic disturbances common to island groups, all of which face an uncertain future clouded by extinctions of endemic flora and fauna, growing populations of invasive species, and burgeoning resident and tourist populations. Examining the natural and human history of each island group from early settlement onwards, the book provides a critique of the concept of sustainable growth and offers realistic guidelines for future island management.

Table of Contents

Preface

Introduction to island environments and cultures

The physical setting

Natural disturbances on islands

The plants and animals of islands

Human dispersal, colonization, and early environmental impacts

Intensifying human impacts on islands

Islands in the modern world: 1950-2000

The future of island ecosystems: remoteness lost

Glossary

Index

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