A Forest Journey

This detailed study explores the role forests have played in the development of past civilizations. The author examines how societies have dealt with the consequences of deforestation, and relates their solutions to the contemporary problems of deforestation and the greenhouse effect.

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One of the most important environmental issues facing our planet is the destruction of the world's forests. The problems associated with deforestation include depletion of firewood supplies, severe flooding, accelerated loss of soil and declining soil productivity. All of us face a catastrophic future because of worldwide deforestation; the loss of forests is a major cause of the "greenhouse effect". John Perlin shows in this detailed study the role forests played in the development of past civilizations. Wood was the principal fuel and building material of almost every society from the Bronze Age to the nineteenth century. Its availability shaped in large part the culture, economy and technology of past societies. This examination of how other societies dealt with the consequences of deforestation is an important resource for better understanding and resolving these problems today.