Book Review

by Paul Ganderton

Ford A. 1999. Modeling the Environment. Island Press. pp xiv + 401. ISBN 1 55963 601 7.

The use of models is standard in any environmental and ecological course but there is rarely any thought given as to how the model is constructed, its advantages and disadvantages. This is one of the few texts to go back to basics and allow the reader to construct their own models. Designed as a US undergraduate course text the reader is taken from the first basic principles through to some quite sophisticated modelling. The 6 parts of the book start with an overview of the modelling process, stock and flow diagrams, loops and growth diagrams. Part two starts the modelling process in more depth with the analysis of material flows. Part three deals with the modelling process whilst by part four the student is taken on to simulate cyclical systems. The final two parts examine the more complex models - flight simulators, and model validation. A very large range of appendices covers units, software (the author assumes certain key programmes are available) and a few special topics. Each chapter has an overview and summary as well as a range of structured questions. Although undoubtedly for an undergraduate audience there is a great deal to be gained in this text. Secondary school students with a flair for programming should be able to make these examples work whilst teachers would find the analysis of models adds much to their understanding of this often neglected area. This is a first rate text that deserves a wide readership.