Seeing the wood and the trees

This is a much-needed encyclopedia, given the growing awareness of global environmental problems.

The three-part cross-referencing allows readers to benefit fully from the 12 classifications that characterise the volume: concepts, issues and methods; place and linkage surveys; conservation and environmental organisations; academic disciplines and subdisciplines; government organisations and agencies; legislation and case law; individuals; species or classes of species; special habitats and places; pollutants and classes of pollutants; dimensions of sustainability; and publications.

Although the idea of the book is a good one, its execution can be criticised. For example, the books for further reading at the end of each section are inadequately referenced, especially for a nonacademic audience. And although there is an attempt to present this information from as many perspectives as possible - the 500 articles were written by contributors in 20 countries - it is nevertheless far too Americocentric.

Some entries should have been written by more than one specialist, particularly where environmental philosophy is concerned. There is too much reliance on academic interpretation; approximately two-thirds of the entries have been compiled by those not at the cutting edge of environmental activity and change. But if the latter had been asked to take time off to write up an entry for an encyclopedia, their response would probably have been a rude gesture.

Robert Paehlke seems aware of the lack when he writes that a "forester may see a forest differently from an ecologist or conservation biologist". He also notes that "every effort was made to present these diverse viewpoints and subjects in a style that is intelligible to those with little or no background in the discipline of the author", and he hits the nail on the head when he says that "unless we can bring together our understanding of the problems in a comprehensive way and develop a body of knowledge that is more integrated", we will be unable to effect change in environmental and conservation protection. It is easy to say that "effective democratic action on these vital problems also requires that even larger numbers of individual citizens appreciate the many dimensions of these problems and act responsibly to address them" - but much harder to empower people who are suffering from injustice, oppression, pollution and poverty.

If this volume manages to stimulate an interest in politics and nature, whether ecological, scientific or political, that is holistic rather than atomistic, then it will have achieved not only Paehlke's aim but that of many others.

My only real concern is that it will not reach its intended audience because it is too specialised. Despite Paehlke's desire that it be intelligible to general readers, the majority of the entries pose more questions than they answer. In that sense it is a book to be read fully by those without a basic understanding of ecology, pollution and sustainabilty and perused by those with a working knowledge, so that they may come to an understanding of why our ecological problems are linked to our social, economic and political systems. Sadly, at Pounds 85, many readers will have to seek the book out in their local library - if the library can afford it.

Robert Allen is an environmental activist.