Development or Destruction?

This book offers a comprehensive look into the oil industry. While the business may get negative press, and with the politics of oil such a sensitive issue, this book offers a welcome investigation of the facts from all sides. Along with outlining the negative aspects of the oil industry, this book also provides a balanced view of the benefits this energy source provides.

While large-scale dam projects can provide many benefits, such as preventing flooding, providing irrigation, and supplying hydropower, they can also cause human and environmental destruction. Millions of people in developing countries have been displaced and have lost their livelihoods as a result of the building of dams and reservoirs. Supported by detailed case studies of real-world dam projects, including the Aswan High Dam in Egypt and the Three Gorges Dam in China, this book examines some of the major issues and impacts associated with dams and hydropower today. Sidebars, fact boxes, and quotes illuminate the problems and benefits of this type of development. A debate activity engages readers in making decisions about a new dam project.

Travel and tourism changed drastically with the introduction of air travel and increased safety with other modes of transportation. Economically, tourism is a good thing, but can it be bad for the environment. This book takes a look at some popular travel destinations and the effects the increased travel and tourism has on them.

Studies from around the world showcase both the positive and the negative impacts that development projects can have. This book explores the various consequences of resource management within the forestry industry. Throughout, pros and cons of development and deforestation are presented in order to represent both sides and provoke a debate/discussion.