This book deals with the global flows of energy and materials, and changes caused by human activities. Based on these facts, the limitations of anthropogenic energy and material flows and the resulting consequences for the development of human societies are discussed. Different scenarios for lifestyle patterns are correlated with the world's future development of energy supply and climate.
Introduction and Fundamentals.- Biogeosphere as Environment for Life.- Energy Balance of the Earth.- Global Material Cycles.- Anthropogenic Material and Energy Flows.- Limits for Anthropogenica Material and Energy Flows.- Approaches to Global Development.