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Harvesting the Biosphere
320 pages, 2015
science & nature
1064 booksVaclav Smil offers an interdisciplinary and quantitative account of the human-caused changes to the biosphere, from prehistory to the present day. The biosphere―the Earth's thin layer of life―dates from nearly four billion years ago, when the first simple organisms appeared.
Many species have exerted enormous influence on the biosphere's character and productivity, but none has transformed the Earth in so many ways and on such a scale as Homo sapiens. Without harvesting biomass, Smil points out, there would be no story of human evolution and advancing civilization.
In Harvesting the Biosphere, Vaclav Smil takes us on a journey to explore the biosphere - the part of the Earth where life exists. He helps us understand how humans have been exploiting it for thousands of years, and the impact this has had on our planet.
Smil's research shows that human activity has significantly altered the biosphere. From deforestation to overfishing, he paints a clear picture of how our actions have led to a decrease in biodiversity and an increase in carbon emissions.
Agriculture plays a central role in the book. Smil explains how the rise of agriculture has led to a massive transformation of the biosphere, with both positive and negative consequences. It's a fascinating look into the history and future of farming.
One of the key messages in Harvesting the Biosphere is the need for more sustainable practices. Smil argues that we need to find a balance between our needs and the health of the biosphere. This is a wake-up call for all of us to take action and make changes in our lives.
Harvesting the Biosphere is a comprehensive study of the biosphere and human impact on it. It's a must-read for anyone interested in environmental science, history, or the future of our planet. Check it out to see the world from a new perspective.
