Coastal Systems

ISBN-13: 9780415213011 / Angielski / Twarda / 2000 / 240 str.

Simon Haslett

Opis

The coast represents the crossroads between the oceans, lands and atmosphere, and all three contribute to the physiscal and ecological evolution of coastlines. Coasts are dynamic systems, with identifiable inputs and outputs of energy and material. Changes in input force coasts to respond, often in dramatic ways. Almost half the worlds human population lives at the coast, and here people interfere with nature, usually with unforseen and unwanted consequences. Contemporary research is attempting to understand natural coastal processes, so that we may better appreciate and manage this unique environment. This study offers a concise introduction to the processes, landforms, ecosystems and management of this important environment. Each chapter is illustrated and furnished with topical case studies from around the world. Introductory chapters establish the importance of coasts, and explains how they are studied within a systems framework. Subsequent chapters explore the role of waves, tides, rivers, and sea level change in coastal evolution. The final chapter reviews the human pressures and management of coastal systems.

Recenzje

'This is a very good, accurate and up-to-date undergraduate text which provides a sound overview of the coastal processes and systems.' - Geography

'Provides a very approachable, reliable and well pitched text for students ... marvellously constructed ... Haslett's book is the best on the market ...' - Earth Surface Processes and Landforms Vol. 27

Spis treści

1 Coastal systems: definition, energy and classification 2 Wave-dominated coastal systems 3 Tidally-dominated coastal systems 4 River-dominated coastal systems 5 Sea-level and the changing land-sea interface 6. Coastal Management Issues