Understanding Environmental Pollution systematically introduces pollution issues to students and others with little scientific background. The first edition received excellent reviews, and the newedition has been completely refined and updated. The book moves from the definition of pollution and how pollutants behave, to air and water pollution basics, pollution and global change, solid waste, and pollution in the home. It also discusses persistent and bioaccumulative chemicals, and pesticides, and it places greater stress on global pollutants. The relationship between energy generation and use, and pollution is stressed, as well as the importance of going beyond pollution control, to pollution prevention. Impacts on human and environmental health are emphasized throughout. Students are often invited to come to their own conclusions after having been presented with a variety of opinions. This textbook provides the basic concepts of pollution, toxicology and risk assessment for non-science majors as well as environmental science students.

‘This book, aimed mainly at students, provides a thorough background to pollution, from global issues to personal pollution in the home … This book provides an excellent introduction to the subject, providing the right information to enable students to evaluate environmental problems for themselves.’

Source: Environmental Assessment Magazine

‘… a clear and well organised US-based text.’

Source: Waste Planning

‘ … this book forms a very useful introduction to pollution problems, and would also suit a more general readership, including members of the public with an interest in pollution matters.’

Source: Marine Pollution Bulletin

'There is a wealth of statistical information given, and jargon is either studiously avoided or fully explained. … this is a useful 'primer' for students and interested members of the public.'

Source: Journal of Biological Education