Human Transformations of the Earth

This book explores how human activities have shaped and altered the development of soils in many parts of the world, examining major processes and impacts such as Holocene warming, woodland development, clearance, and agricultural activities. The studies relate to Britain, southeastern Europe, the Mediterranean basin, East Africa, northern India, and Peru in South America.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2022
Publisher: Oxbow Books

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate relationship between human activities and the evolution of soils across diverse regions worldwide. Drawing upon a wealth of soil analytical research spanning five decades, it offers a detailed account of how human actions have molded and transformed the soil landscape. The core of this volume explores the profound transformations of soils that have taken place throughout the Holocene era, examining their connection to both human activities and natural forces. Through a two-pronged approach, the book examines significant processes and impacts on the landscape, including the effects of Holocene warming, the expansion of woodland, clearance, and agricultural activities. Additionally, it scrutinizes the trajectories of these changes in soil systems across different palaeo-environmental contexts in various parts of the world. The identified transformations hold significant relevance to contemporary issues such as over-development, soil degradation, land conservation, and environmental resilience. The studies presented in this book encompass a range of regions, including Britain, southeastern Europe, the Mediterranean basin, East Africa, northern India, and Peru in South America. By examining these diverse case studies, the book provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between human actions and soil development, shedding light on the potential for sustainable land management practices and the preservation of soil health for future generations.

Weight: 654g
Dimension: 169 x 240 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789259209