David Drew obtained Ph.D. form Bristol University in 1967. He was Assistant/Associate Professor of Geography in the University of Saskatchewan, 1968–71, Senior Lecturer in Physical Geography (1971–) and Head of Department (2000–2001) in Trinity College, Dublin. David lectures in surface and groundwater hydrology, soils and karst geomorphology. He is Co-Chairman of the Karst Commission of the International Association of Hydrogeologists. He is the Irish technical representative/author to the COST-65 E.U. Programme (protection of karstic aquifers). He is also the Irish representative on Human Impact on Karsts Commission of the International Geographical Union.

• Preface Part A: Introduction to man and the environment 1. Environment 2. Man and the workings of the natural environment Part B: Man’s impact on aspects of the environment 3. Soils 4. Plants and animals 5. The atmosphere 6. Water 7. Landforms 8. The oceans Part C: The overall human impact 9. The rural-agricultural environment 10. The urban-industrial environment 11. Conclusions