Indicators of environmental quality

Abstract

Attempts at quantitatively describing environmental quality, rather than merely measuring different environmental variables, are relatively recent. This condensing of data into the optimum number of terms with maximum information content is a truly interdisciplinary challenge. Environmental indicators are indispensable if complex environmental problems are to be solved. To encourage cooperation among persons with diverse professional interests and to review the state of the art, the American Association for the Advancement of Science sponsored a two day symposium entitled 'Indicators of Environmental Quality' during its annual meeting in Philadelphia in December 1971. The authors of the first 18 of the 21 chapters of this book prepared their papers for presentation at that symposium. The concluding three chapters were added to broaden even more the book's coverage of environment. The symposium's scope was primarily limited to the physical, chemical, and biological aspects. In addition, the social consequences are recognized throughout this volume. The symposium also emphasized the need for public participation in decisions concerning environmental quality, and it was agreed that indicators facilitate the required communication among public officials, scientists and the public.