A History of Radioecology

This book provides a history of radioecology,from World War II through to the Cold War,and discusses the implications of the ecological research supported by the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) of the United States government. It highlights the transition from descriptive studies to functional studies and the development of radioecology as a by-product of the Cold War. The book uses case studies and archived information from the Cold War era to provide lessons for understanding radiation risks associated with nuclear power generation and waste disposal. It will be of interest to students and scholars of radioecology, environmental pollution, environmental technology, bioscience, and environmental history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 228 pages
Publication date: 26 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book offers a detailed and insightful history of radioecology,spanning from the aftermath of World War II to the pivotal years of the Cold War. It concludes with a discussion of recent developments and their potential implications for the field. Drawing upon a vast array of primary sources, the book comprehensively reviews, synthesizes, and analyzes the ecological research supported by the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) of the United States government from World War II to the early 1970s. This period marked a significant transition in the history of ecology, characterized by a shift from the traditional descriptive studies of plant and animal communities to the modern, more functional approach that focuses on the study of energy and mineral cycling within ecosystems.

The development of radioecology played a pivotal role in this transition, emerging as a by-product of the Cold War and the urgent need to understand and predict the consequences of a potential nuclear war. The book delves into important case studies, including the Pacific Proving Grounds, the Nevada Test Site, El Verde in Puerto Rico, the Brookhaven National Laboratory, and recent events such as the nuclear disasters at Chernobyl and Fukushima. By revisiting studies and archived information from the Cold War era, the book offers valuable lessons and insights into the history of radioecology, providing a foundation for understanding the potential impacts of radiation risks associated with nuclear power generation and waste disposal in the present day.

Post-Cold War developments in radioecology are also examined, contrasting them with the AEC-supported ecology research. This comparative analysis provides further perspectives and sheds light on the evolving nature of the field. Overall, this book is a valuable resource for students, scholars, and professionals interested in radioecology, environmental pollution, environmental technology, bioscience, and environmental studies. It offers a comprehensive and up-to-date account of the field's historical development, providing a deep understanding of the past and the potential future directions of radioecology.

Weight: 444g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032257655