Environmental Geology

by Edward A. Keller

Having originally defined the Environmental Geology course, this is considered the most comprehensive yet readable book for your course level. Keller continues to offer the most detailed, current research available. He covers a wide range of topics, discussing everything from fundamental geologic principles to the specifics of environmental law and geologic hazards, from a truly environmental perspective. The Ninth Edition emphasizes the engineering geology approach, especially in the discussion of soil and rock mechanics and landslides.

Genres: Geology, Science, Textbooks, Environment

624 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1979

Reviews

[Lillian Elliott]

This was the textbook for a Environmental Geology class I took and I actually read it cover to cover because it was so interesting. I thought the class, which seemed to be designed around the book as all the lectures went off of chapters from the book, was very interesting and Environmental Geology was an excellent textbook. I learned a lot from reading it and it sparked my interest in environmental science. I love that this field, and this book, discuss not only the physical aspects of geology, but the cultural and social implications of geographic features. For example, it discussed Easter Island and the misuse of resources there that caused the civilization to resort to cannibalism. I also learned that there is evidence that Ancient Rome's fall may have been related to lead poisoning (they used lead in many of their everyday items and the upper class had water flowing through lead pipes into their homes). I love how Edward A. Keller connected geology to history and social issues. He also writes about how to keep yourself out of harm's way with regards to natural hazards, discussing the proper ways to react to natural disasters as well as how to escape from a rip current.

I enjoyed this book and learned a lot from it. Although it is long, as textbooks usually are, I found all the information relevant and the writing interesting. I think it is important to learn about environmental issues, particularly climate change, because we need to learn about the Earth in order to take better care of it. I think this was an excellent textbook and recommend it for anyone interested in an in depth exploration of environmental geology.