of the statistical resources presented in this section, there are descriptions of each page and the information contained on it.In some cases, the pages link to additional information and data. On other pages, an Adobe Acrobat file is embedded into the page. Within that file there are statistics and information concerning their importance.
These indicators show not only the current trends in the environment, but in other aspects of human life as well.
This second group of statistics in incredibly important because the factors that are measured are some of the most important forces in determining the well-being of the environment.
For example, the population explosion that is occurring in many areas of the developing world is putting pressures on local environments. It has created the need for more natural resources, including land, water, food, and other basic necessities of life.
The statistics on development and economic growth
are also especially revealing about the environment. Historically, economic development has been one of the principal factors in environmental change. In the modern world as well, development and industrialization are having major environmental effects.
All of these statistics say a great deal about the environment around the world. One of the most important things these statistics show is that the environment is a global issue, and that problems in one region of the world
affect every country. Furthermore, as the regions of the world begin to interact more, their futures will become even more interdependent.
Another important issue found in these statistics is that the environment is constantly changing. By continuing to watch these statistics, we may be able to prevent future environmental degradation.
