Key Benefit: Essential Environment: The Science behind the Stories, Fourth Edition engages students with integrated central case studies that provide students with a tangible framework for understanding science in a brief 18-chapter book. Jay Withgott and new co-author Matt Laposata present the latest coverage of environmental science and introduce new FAQ sections to address common student misconceptions. Key Topics: Science and Sustainability:An Introduction to Environmental Science, Environmental Systems: Chemistry, Energy, and Ecosystems, Evolution, Biodiversity, and Population Ecology, Species Interactions and Community Ecology,Environmental Economics and Environmental Policy, Human Population, Soil, Agriculture, and the Future of Food, Biodiversity and Conservation Biology, Forests, Forest Management, and Protected Areas, Environmental Health and Toxicology, Geology, Minerals, and Mining, Fresh Water, Oceans, and Coasts, Atmospheric Science and Air Pollution, Global Climate Change, Nonrenewable Energy Sources, Their Impacts, and Energy Conservation, Renewable Energy Alternatives, Managing Our Waste, The Urban Environment: Creating Sustainable Cities. Market: Intended for those interested in gaining a basic knowledge of environmental science