Sowing the Wind: Reflections on the Earth's Atmosphere

To readers confused by conflicting reports on pollution and global warming, this guide to atmospheric science offers clarification. After introducing us to the troposphere and its early exploration by balloonists, Young ( The Blue Planet ) discusses weather systems and climatic change. We learn about the emergence of life on Earth, the natural processes that maintain chemical balance and the role of the sun in life systems. Next Young addresses the threats to our planet: acid rain, depletion of the ozone layer and global warming (the greenhouse effect), to which she takes a cautious approach. She believes there is still uncertainty about the timing and degree of change. Advocating measures that would reduce greenhouse gases and solve or ameliorate the other problems, Young recommends banning all CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons), massive tree-planting, recycling, more efficient use of energy and the development of alternative and renewable energy sources. A valuable addition to the environmentalist bookshelf. (Aug.)