Book 17

Presents the results of the symposium of the Scientific Committee on Problems of the Environment (SCOPE). Examines the biogeochemistry of the globe from a holistic point of view, considering the alteration of global cycles and the distortion of cycles by human activities. Focuses on the flux and reservoir amounts of individual substances such as carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur and water. Illustrates the urgency for quantitative answers relative to changes in the atmospheric emissions of carbon, sulfur, and nitrogen due to increased combustion of fossil fuels. Shows how these perturbations affect a variety of other cycles and how other cycles affect them, all combining to affect human welfare.