This inaugaral volume of what is planned as an annual series is aimed at supplying basic information and trend data on natural resources and presenting objective analyses that can form a basis for policy decisions. Among the topics extensively reviewed are population, human settlements, food and agriculture, forests and rangelands, wildlife and habitat, energy, fresh water, oceans and coasts, atmosphere and climate, policies and institutions, and multiple pollutants and forest decline. A separate section presents tables providing data on these environmental issues by country. Because the purpose of this volume is to contribute to better management of the environment, the emphasis is on situations that demand attention and action. Stressed is the impact of environmental quality and successful resource management on human health. The lack of adequate nutrition, potable water, and sanitation all of which are in the purview of environmental and resource policy rather than medicine as currently conceptualized are the major threats to world health. Another focal area in this volume is the relationship between population and natural resources. Fertility rates are the key to the world's demographic future and population growth must be grounded in sound resource management. The rapid population growth, difficult environment, and mismanagement of natural resources in Africa demand particularly intensive consideration.
