Volcanoes and the Environment is a comprehensive and accessible text incorporating contributions from some of the world's authorities in volcanology. This book is an indispensable guide for those interested in how volcanism affects our planet's environment. It spans a wide variety of topics from geology to climatology and ecology; it also considers the economic and social impacts of volcanic activity on humans. Topics covered include how volcanoes shape the environment, their effect on the geological cycle, atmosphere and climate, impacts on health of living on active volcanoes, volcanism and early life, effects of eruptions on plant and animal life, large eruptions and mass extinctions, and the impact of volcanic disasters on the economy. This book is intended for students and researchers interested in environmental change from the fields of earth and environmental science, geography, ecology and social science. It will also interest policy makers and professionals working on natural hazards.

'Spanning a variety of topics from geology to climatology and ecology, this very readable book will appeal to a wide range of readers interested in earth science, geography, ecology, social science and environmental issues.'

Source: Open University Geological Society Journal

'… this book … provides the reader with excellent summaries on themes as disparate as volcano hazards, geothermal energy and ore deposits.'

Source: Geography

'The content of this book is of a high quality… concise and easy to follow with relevant figures and tables … The text is accessible to researchers of several different disciplines and would form a useful text book for students in environmental sciene departments. Volcanoes and the Environment achieves its goals.'

Source: Journal of Environmental Conservation

'… a very worthwhile addition to the volcanologist's bookshelf … sure … to inform even the most seasoned volcanologists. … The book also makes for an excellent reader for students - from undergraduate level up - thanks to its diverse coverage and review style.'

Source: Geological Magazine