Vaclav Smil is Distinguished Professor in the Department of Geography, University of Manitoba, Canada. He is widely recognized as one of the world's leading authorities on the biosphere and China's environment. He is the author of many books including The Earth's Biosphere, Enriching the Earth, Feeding the World and China's Environment.

• 1. China's Biophysical Foundations  2. Energy  3. Food  4. Environment  5. Looking Ahead by Looking Back

'China's expanding population aond huge developmental needs have put enormous demands on the environment. This is one of the most factual and comprehensive discussions on those environmental pressures currently available.' - China Information'This comprehensive and highly informative volume reflects upon the author's past scholarship in light of new developments and future trends.' - The China Journal'The strength of the book lies in its balanced perspective, devoid of ideologically driven assumptions.' - The China Journal'The book is a highly valuable resource for acquiring a detailed understanding of the complex relationships between energy, food, and the environment in contemporary China.' - The China Journal'This is an excellent book that summarises many of the arguements and research that has stimulated Professor Smil's work. It provides a particularly useful summary of some of the main trends in China's food, energy and environmental use and, as such, should appeal not only to Sinologists but also to non-specialists and those wanting an overview of China's recent and current environment and society.'- James Beattie, University of Otago