Contaminants in fish. Ocean dumping. Biological diversity/integrity and endangered species. Pinelands and forest preservation. Wetlands protection. Watersheds and headwaters. In Protecting New Jersey's Environment these concerns translate into real human interest stories about people and their surroundings not only in the state-a critical site for the growth of environmentalism-but all around the country as well. And you can add even more to the list- ozone depletion, nuclear power, toxic waste, sprawl, racial inequity, brownfields remediation versus environmental justice concerns . Through a series of gripping accounts organized by geographic area, Thomas Belton considers key environmental issues in New Jersey and champions the ways common citizens have sought justice when faced with unseen health threats. Often, as people search for remedies in their neighborhoods, the challenges they face result in what Belton calls bare-knuckles environmental protection, replete with back-room political deals, infighting, criminals, and hapless victims. With people as its focus, Protecting New Jersey's Environment explores the science underpinning environmental issues and the public policy infighting that goes undocumented behind the scenes and beneath the controversies. Belton demonstrates the ways that scientists, regulators, lobbyists, and politicians interact and offers the public a go-to guide on how to seek environmental protection in practical ways. "Tom Belton is every bit as colorful as the characters he profiles. A fascinating, fresh approach to New Jersey's complex environmental issues." -- Michael Catania ― President of Conservation Resources, Inc. "With geographic regions as his literary and environmental boundaries, Belton takes readers around his beloved Garden State. He highlights the environmental hazards with which New Jersey is currently struggling, as well as the common citizens who have taken to the courts and the airwaves to champion true environmental protection within their treasured neighborhoods, waterways, and forests. Recommended." ― Choice Published On: 2011-06-01 Thomas Belton is a scientist within the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. Involved in environmental research for the past twenty-five years, he has investigated the impact of toxic chemicals on humans and wildlife. Used Book in Good Condition