The book is structured into six core parts. The first part sets the scene and explains how the
use of Aral basin water resources primarily used for irrigation have destroyed the Aral Sea.
The team explains how spheres and events interact and the related problems. Part 2 examines the
social consequences of the ecological catastrophe and the affect of the Aral Sea desiccation on
cultural and economic conditions of near Aral region. Part 3 explores the scientific causes of
the destruction using detailed analyses and data plus some of their own research spanning
aquatic biology terrestrial biology hydrology water management and biodiversity. They also
share some of the latest archaeological discoveries and paleobotanical analysis to delineate
past levels and characteristics of the Aral Sea. There is particular focus on modern remote
sensing and GIS techniques and how they can monitor the Aral Sea and the environment. Part 4
discusses regional and international initiatives to mitigate human and ecological problems of
the Aral Sea and the wider political and economic consequences. With thorough insight of the
total environment cost the final chapters of the book will provide lessons for the future.
There are insightful case studies throughout. Multidisciplinary by nature all titles in our
new reference book series will explore significant changes within the Earth's ecosystems and to
some extent and will tackle ways to think about our changing environment.
