Developments In Environmental Modelling

The book describes and discusses the numerical methods which are successfully being used for analysing ecological data, using a clear and comprehensive approach. These methods are derived from the fields of mathematical physics, parametric and nonparametric statistics, information theory, numerical taxonomy, archaeology, psychometry, sociometry, econometry and others. Compared to the first edition of Numerical Ecology, this second edition includes three new chapters, dealing with the analysis of semiquantitative data, canonical analysis and spatial analysis. New sections have been added to almost all other chapters. There are sections listing available computer programs and packages at the end of several chapters. As in the previous English and French editions, there are numerous examples from the ecological literature, and the choice of methods is facilitated by several synoptic tables.

The use of models to assess water quality is becoming increasingly important worldwide. In order to be able to develop a good model, it is necessary to have a good quantitative and ecological description of physical, chemical and biological processes in ecosystems. Such descriptions may be called ``submodels''. This book presents the most important, but not all, submodels applied in water quality modelling. Each chapter deals with a specific physical process and covers its importance, the most applicable submodels (and how to select one), parameter values and their determination, and future research needs. The book will be an excellent reference source for environmental engineers, ecological modellers and all those interested in the modelling of water quality systems.

Ecological Model Types brings an understanding on how to quantitatively analyze complex and dynamic ecosystems with the tools available today. Ecosystem studies widely use the notions of order, complexity, randomness, and organization, and are used interchangeably in literature, which causes much confusion. Better models synthesize our knowledge on ecosystems and their environmental problems, in contrast to statistical analysis, which only reveal the relationships between the data. This book brings together experts on ecological models to create a definitive work on how to understand our complex Earth. Bridges the gap between statistical analysis and synthesis of data, enhancing our understanding about ecosystems and their environmental problems Helps readers understand complex ecosystems by walking through the best modeling options to analyze and predict environmental effects Provides a detailed review of 14 model types, covering the breadth of options available for analysis at this time

Cover -- Contents -- Preface -- Acknowledgements -- Chapter 1. Introduction -- 1.1 Physical and Mathematical Models -- 1.2 Models as a Management Tool -- 1.3 Models as a Scientific Tool -- 1.4 Models and Holism -- 1.5 The Ecosystem as an Object for Research -- 1.6 Outline of the Book -- 1.7 The Development of Ecological and Environmental Models -- 1.8 State of the Art in the Application of Models -- Chapter 2. Concepts of Modelling -- 2.1 Introduction -- 2.2 Modelling Elements -- 2.3 The Modelling Procedure -- 2.4 Types of Model -- 2.5 Selection of Model Type -- 2.6 Selection of Model Complexity and Structure -- 2.7 Verification -- 2.8 Sensitivity Analysis -- 2.9 Parameter Estimation -- 2.10 Validation -- 2.11 Ecological Modelling and Quantum Theory -- 2.12 Modelling Constraints -- Problems -- Chapter 3. Ecological Processes -- 3A.1 Space and Time Resolution -- 3A.2 Mass Transport -- 3A.3 Mass Balance -- 3A.4 Energetic Factors -- 3A.5 Settling and Resuspension -- 3B.1 Chemical Reaction ...

Investigating the complex nature of environmental problems requires the integration of different environmental processes across major components of the environment. Cumulative effects assessment (CEA) not only includes analyzing and modelling environmental changes, but also supports planning alternatives that promote environmental monitoring and management. The adoption of integrated modelling approaches requires the development of frameworks which may be used to investigate individual environmental processes and their interactions with each other. Integrated modelling systems and frameworks are often the only way to examine important environmental processes and interactions, relevant spatial and temporal scales, and feedback mechanisms of complex systems for CEA. This book examines the ways in which interactions and relationships between environmental components are understood, paying special attention to climate, land, water quantity and quality, and both anthropogenic and natural stressors. It reviews modelling approaches for each component and existing integrated modelling systems for CEA. Finally, it proposes an integrated modelling framework and provides perspectives on future research avenues for cumulative effects assessment.

The complex and multidisciplinary nature of environmental problems requires that they are dealt with in an integrated manner. Modeling and software have become key instruments used to promote sustainability and improve environmental decision processes, especially through systematic integration of various knowledge and data and their ability to foster learning and help make predictions. This book presents the current state-of-the-art in environmental modeling and software and identifies the future challenges in the field. State-of-the-art in environmental modeling and software theory and practice for integrated assessment and management serves as a starting point for researchers Identifies the areas of research and practice required for advancing the requisite knowledge base and tools, and their wider usage Best practices of environmental modeling enables the reader to select appropriate software and gives the reader tools to integrate natural system dynamics with human dimensions

Simulation models are increasingly used to investigate processes and solve practical problems in a wide variety of disciplines eg. climatology, ecology, hydrology, geomorphology, engineering. Environmental Modelling: A Practical Approach addresses the development, testing and application of such models, which apply across traditional boundaries, and demonstrate how interactions across these boundaries can be beneficial. Provides a general overview of methods and approaches as well as focusing on key subject areas written by leading practitioners in the field Assesses the advantages and disadvantages of different models used and provides case studies supported with data, output, tutorial exercises and links to the model and/or model applications via the book's website Covers major developments in the field, eg. the use of GIS and remote sensing techniques, and scaling issues As associated website contains colour images, as well as links to www resources