In 37 full-colour international maps, The State of the Earth examines the health of the planet and the quality of human life. It illustrates all the critical issues - global warming, holes in the ozone layer, rainforest destruction, the loss of wildlife, pollution of every sort. It identifies the effects of industrial and urban expansion, changing methods of agriculture and ever-increasing demands for energy. It measures our ability to meet basic human needs while protecting other forms of life. As the Chernobyl nuclear accident proved so dramatically in 1986, environmental problems do not stop at state boundaries. The State of the Earth reflects world wide public concern for our environment and considers the need for more effective international organizations and agreements. With facts on a broad range of topics - from air quality and acid rain to toxic waste and tourism - this book should be a comprehensive source of reference.