This textbook addresses the critical environmental challenges facing the world today, aiming to equip students with the knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary to understand and act upon these issues. Authored by George B. Johnson, Linda R. Berg, and Peter H. Raven, the text draws upon established scientific understanding to present a comprehensive overview of environmental science. It encourages students to move beyond passive learning to actively engage with complex problems and formulate their own informed conclusions.

This textbook is designed as an informative resource for students grappling with significant environmental issues. Its structure encourages critical engagement with scientific data and ecological principles, aiming to foster informed decision-making. The authors' approach suggests a text that balances factual presentation with an emphasis on student agency in addressing global challenges.