Frank R. Spellman is the author or co-author of more than 70 books
on the natural sciences, as well as environmental and health
sciences. He has served as a consultant for the U.S. Department of
Justice, a variety of law firms, and a number of non-governmental
organizations on environmental issues and health-related matters.
He is formerly an assistant professor of environmental health at
Old Dominion University.
Melissa L. Stoudt is a radiation controls training instructor at an
atomic power laboratory. Previously, she instructed students and
officers of the US Navy in proper radiation controls and handling
of radioactive material. She is coauthor of Nuclear Infrastructure
Protection and Homeland Security (Scarecrow Press 2011).
This volume—arranged into 5 parts and 18 chapters—provides a
thorough introduction to the study of environmental science and its
many related fields of study. Each chapter begins with a short
quote or anecdote, a list of chapter objectives and an outline, a
list of key terms, and an introduction to the subject at hand. The
first of the five sections focuses on providing foundational
knowledge critical to the study and understanding of environmental
science, while the following sections focus more closely on air
quality, water quality, soil science, and solid and hazardous
waste. Each chapter closes with a short summary, a list of
suggested discussion questions and problems, a list of suggested
research topics and projects, notes, and a list of references and
recommended reading. Black and-white images and illustrations are
included throughout the text. The charts and illustrations are
generally useful. 'Did You Know?' boxes appear through the book to
highlight key information and quick facts. Boxed sections featuring
'Response Scenarios' offer sample situations as well as suggested
questions to prompt further thought and discussion. 'Case Studies'
also appear in shaded boxes and offer real-world examples of
relevant topics. The text concludes with a comprehensive glossary
and an index. The authors provide a balanced discussion of the
practices by humans that are harmful to the environment while also
presenting possible solutions. Intended for undergraduate students
and general readers, this set would be a worthwhile resource for
academic and public libraries. High-school libraries where AP
classes on environmental science are taught would also find this
volume to be useful.
*Booklist*
Frank R. Spellman and Melissa Stoudt’s Environmental Science:
Principles and Practices demonstrates the interdisciplinary aspects
of environmental science and how our air, water, and soil are
affected by a complex array of factors. Providing the information
about scientific principles, applications, concepts, and
methodologies, this resource gives the student a more comprehensive
idea of the interrelationship of human beings, technology, weather
and a wide range of other variables and how all of these combined
forces affect the differing environments in which human beings live
on our planet. Because this source provides a detailed look at
endangered species, hazardous wastes, acid rain, ozone depletion,
and pollution of our air, water, and soil by manufacturing,
pesticides, auto emissions, and more, it would be an excellent
textbook or essential reference resource for faculty and students.
The organization and special features enhance its value. Each
chapter provides objectives, key terms, discussion questions, a
bibliography, real-life examples, and suggested research topics for
students. This volume, also available as an e-book, will help build
a foundation for anyone interested in the current and emerging
environmental issues that are changing and will continue to change
the way we live.
*American Reference Books Annual*
![]() |
Ask a Question About this Product More... |
![]() |