The last two decades showed an introduction of worldwide threats to the biosphere and human health due to the effects of anthropogenic activities. This book pays major attention to ecological and geophysical aspects of controlling the natural environment. The scientific basis of observations, assessment and forecasting of this natural environment are treated extensively. Methods of ecological and climatic monitoring are presented and their realization in several countries are discussed. Analysis of possible climatic changes, the ozone-layer problems, the polluting of the oceans, acid rain and the aftermath of the Chernobyl accident are concrete examples presented.

Preface. Introduction to the Problem. Section I: Comprehensive Analysis and Control of the State of the Environment. 1. Comprehensive Analysis of the Natural Environment. 2. Permissible Loading on the Biosphere and the Principles of Establishment of Ecological Standards. 3. Environmental Quality Control. Section II: Concept of Monitoring. 4. Concept of Monitoring Anthropogenic Changes. 5. Ecological Monitoring. 6. Climate Monitoring. 7. Realisation of Monitoring Systems and Control of the State of Natural Environment. Section III. Global Ecological Problems. Critical Anthropogenic Impacts on the Biosphere. 8. Consequences of Anthropogenic Impacts of the Atmosphere and Climate. 9. Long-Range Pollutant Transport. Acid Rains Ecotoxicology. 10. Atmosphere and Climate under Stress Conditions. Geophysical and Ecological Consequences of a Nuclear War. 11. Anthropogenic Impact on the World Oceans. Conclusion: The Ways to Solve the Problems of Anthropogenic Changes in the Biosphere.