Overview

The coast represents the crossroads between the oceans, land, and atmosphere, and all three contribute to the physical 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 world's human population lives at the coast, and here people interfere with nature, usually with unforeseen and unwanted consequences. Contemporary research is attempting to understand natural coastal processes, so that we may better appreciate and manage this unique environment. Coastal Systems 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 explain 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. Undergraduate students will benefit from the summary points, discussion questions, and annotated guides to further reading at the end of each chapter. Also, a comprehensive glossary of technical terms, and an extensive up-to-date bibliography, are provided. The book is highly illustrated with 70 diagrams and 44 original plates.

Full Product Details

9780415213028

Table of Contents

Reviews

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

Author Information

Simon K. Haslett is a Professor of Physical Geography and recently appointed Director of the Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (CELT) at University of Wales, Newport. His research concerns the physical evolution of coasts and coastal oceans, particularly regarding the impact of climate, sea-level change, and high-energy events, such as storms and tsunami.

Tab Content 6

Customer Reviews

Recent Reviews

Countries Available