Over 5000 species of animal are now at risk of extinction, and scientists predict that, if current environmental trends continue, one in four of all plant species could be extinct by the year 2050. Now reissued, this book reveals the extent of such global problems as natural disasters, pollution and population growth, providing detailed surveys of the seven key biogeographic areas of the world, explaining the problems they face and identifying those animals and plants at risk. It also describes the steps that are being taken, the successes and failures of the conservation movement and measures that the individual can take.