Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
processes, call attention to the material requirements of
energy fluxes and their environmental impacts.
Using these general measures, and augmenting them
by more specific quantifications, this topic proceeds in
an evolutionary sequence. Chapter 2 examines terrestrial
energy fluxes, starting with solar radiation and conclud-
ing with the energetics of geomorphic processes. This
sets the stage for reviewing both the bioenergetic funda-
mentals and the specific and ecosystemic peculiarities of
the plant and animal kingdoms. Chapter 3 on primary
productivity and chapter 4 on heterotrophic conversions
are followed by a closer look at human energetics in
chapter 5. From that point on, the topic concentrates
on the energetic exploits and limit of our species. Brief
notes on the energetics of foraging societies are followed
by more extensive analyses of traditional (solar) farming
and preindustrial complexification based largely on ani-
mate power and biomass fuels (chapters 6 and 7).
The energetics of modern civilization is discussed, fo-
cusing first on its resource foundation and key conversion
techniques, that is, by appraising stores and combustion
of fossil fuels, generation of electricity, and development
and ratings of inanimate prime movers (chapter 8). Then
the perspective widens to embrace general patterns and
trends of energy use in modern societies (chapters 9 and
10) and to survey environmental implications and socio-
economic complexities that accompany this high-energy
way of life (chapters 11 and 12). The topic closes with a
juxtaposition: chapter 13 contrasts grand energetic gen-
eralizations concerning planetary flows, the biosphere,
and the advancement of civilization with thoughts on
the inadequacies inherent in approaches that, though
fundamental and universal, are still insufficient to be the
measure of all things.
