Earth matters : how soil underlies civilization / Richard D. Bardgett.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Bardgett, Richard D., author.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Soils.

Soil science.

Soil and civilization.

Physical Description:

xviii, 191 pages : illustrations; 23 cm

Edition:

First edition.

Place of Publication:

Oxford ; New York : Oxford University Press, 2016.

Summary:

Don't take the soil for granted. As Richard D. Bardgett explains, the soil that covers much of the Earth's surface has taken thousands and even millions of years to form. Each soil reflects the local geology, climate, topography-and human activity. Since our spread across the planet, we have altered and destroyed soils, while relying increasingly on exploiting them to feed our growing numbers, to store water, and to mitigate climate change. But all is not lost. There is still much good soil, providing we learn to manage it properly. Bardgett highlights its rich variety, its inhabitants, and its many, often unexpected, roles in peace and war. This book celebrates the importance of the earth beneath our feet. Book jacket.

Contents:

1 Soil and the Distant Past 1

2 Soil and Biodiversity 23

3 Soil and the Grower 51

4 Soil and the City 81

5 Soil and War 105

6 Soil and Climate Change 135

7 Soil and the Future 163.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references (pages 171-181) and index.

ISBN:

9780199668564

0199668566

OCLC:

914587768