Literature on Human Impacts on Ecosystems

The massive impact humans have on the environment has sparked an environmental movement in literature. Early works from transcendentalist authors set the stage, and a steady stream of literature relating to humans and the ecosystem has been available since the early 19th century. Many works of literature are intended to educate humans about their impact and inspire a change of lifestyle.

"Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson

• "Silent Spring" is one of the most influential pieces of conservation literature in existence. The book is rooted in scientific fact, and it tackles the issue of pesticide and herbicide pollution. The book ultimately led to the current ban on DDT, which was used as a pesticide for crops. Published in 1962, "Silent Spring" remains a model for environmental literature. The book used investigative journalism to reveal a major issue to the public.

"Desert Solitaire" by Edward Abbey

• Edward Abbey has a distinctive style and a cult following. His literature has influenced the environmental movement through realism and blunt observation. Abbey is not reserved, and he uses strong language to demonstrate his passion for the environment and conservation. "Desert Solitaire" is a collection of essays and philosophies related to public lands, wilderness and national parks. Abbey make his opinions clear about being against road systems in wilderness areas and national parks.

''A Sand County Almanac" by Aldo Leopold

• "A Sand County Almanac" was published in 1949, and it continues as a leading example of conservation literature. The book is a collection of essays and stories related to human impact and interaction with the environment. In this book and other works, Leopold describes responsible land management strategies that allow humans to live and interact with a natural environment in a low-impact fashion. Leopold is a Yale graduate, but his work draws on his experiences in the forest service and as a farmer to create a conservation philosophy.

"Refuge" by Terry Tempest Williams

• "Refuge: An Unnatural History of Family and Place" is a modern examination of human interaction with environment in the West. The setting for the book is in Utah, where Tempest examines the effects of development on bird populations and the cause of her mother's cancer on the human introduction of radiation in the desert. The author documents her struggle with family, health and changes to the natural environment on which she relies for inspiration.