This book applies system theory to analyze the operation and structure of the complex earth surface system, including the interactions between society and nature that cause environmental degradation and threats to human populations. The possible ways to harmonize the operation of a global society as a complex system using the United Nation sustainable development goals are investigated, as well as the major efforts currently implemented to achieve this objective and why many are unsuccessful. Readers will learn this material through case studies that assess the essential conditions required to occupy a planet sustainably, and examine the complex interactions between society and nature in the atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and outer layers of the lithosphere. The book is written for undergraduate students in geography, earth sciences, environmental sciences, and ecology, and will also appeal to environmental agency employees, nature protection representatives, teachers, and researchers.

Discusses the complex effects of human activities on the earth system Offers case studies that address the structure and operation of the complex earth system Evaluates the necessary changes for sustainable development in a global society

Autorentext
Dr. Attila Kerényi is an Emeritus Professor in the Department of Landscape Protection and Environmental Geography at the University of Debrecen. He has over 150 publications in peer reviewed journals, and his main research interests include geomorphology, soil erosion processes, and environmental and landscape protection.
Dr. Richard William McIntosh is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Mineralogy and Geology at the University of Debrecen. His research interests include structural geology, geological mapping, and sustainable geothermal energy.

Inhalt
Chapter1. Some remarks on sustainable development.- Chapter2. Structure and operation of systems, models of the global earth system.- Chapter3. The global earth system at the beginning of the 21st century.- Chapter4. Steps towards realising global sustainable development.