Stephen Trudgill presents an internationally authored research-level text, aimed at providing a synopsis of developments in solute modelling in catchment ecosystems over the last ten years. The volume includes particular advances in solute modelling, especially at the catchment scale, emphasising the influences of weathering, ecosystem processes and hydrological processes as well as the application of models and modelling principles. The intended audience for the book is research scientists in cognate fields and postgraduate research workers, although it is especially aimed at those interested in catchment systems. It will also enable specialists to grasp the essentials of topics outside their own field. The book will be of use in a management context as successful water quality management actions are often dependent upon the predictive success of models. It will also show how models can be used to assess the sensitivity of solute production to environmental change and human influence, such as land use change and variation in atmospheric inputs, focussing upon surface catchments rather than groundwater and soil solutes.

Terrestrial Biosphere tries to pose the questions which underlie the many-sided debate of how to respond to and influence change: How should we view nature? What do we do for the best - how should we act - what are we trying to achieve and what should we be guided by?In doing so the book introduces and attempts to analyse not only scientific aspects of the debate but also cultural attitudes and values: the notions of ecosystem stability are now challenged and it is also clear that ecosystems are renewable but not repeatable. It finds that prescriptive 'solutions' based on current constructs may not be adequate. Feeling that analysis should lead to advocacy, the author believes that if we can't improve predictability, we have to increase adaptability which means that ecological and social capacity building should be advocated. This is seen in terms of concepts, institutions, attitudes and values which allow for a plurality of meanings and which can cope with surprise and unforeseen change - and which also facilitates responses to change.