‘Prevention is better than cure’ goes the famous adage. How the grim state of pollution can be averted or controlled? What are the probable preventive methods for? This book attempts to answer many such queries.

The well-researched readings contained in various chapters of this book like—general introduction; air pollution; water pollution; noise pollution; Environmental Act, 1986; air pollution—legal control; industrial pollution abatement; marine pollutants; environmental protection etc. will prove highly useful and informative to experts and laymen alike.

To control the pollution, first we have to classify the pollutants. There are two major types of pollutants: degradable and non-degradable while degradable pollutants include rapidly degradable and slowly degradable pollutants.

The present work is devoted to study the basic principles and practices of pollution control. The authentic information derived from reliable sources is organized in six chapters namely-Pollution and its control; Air Pollution Act, 1981; Principles of noise control; Waste water treatment; Controlling marine pollution; Handling of hazardous substances etc. This will prove an ideal reference work to the users.

Radiation is fatal for human cell. Similarly thermal pollution is also fatal for human body. The human body fails to sense ionizing radiation. It has been probably responsible for much of the general apprehension about this type of hazard. Reliance must be kept on detection devices which have been based on the physical of chemical effects of radiation. These effects include: ionizing in gases; ionization and excitation in certain solids; changes in chemical systems; and activation by neutrons.

Radiation and thermal pollution and its adverse effects on man and environment are thoroughly discussed in this book. Preventive and curative methods are also suggested. Topics like-Radiation and its measurement; Nuclear Pollution; Thermal pollution; Convention on Early Notification of a Nuclear Accident; Convention on Assistance in the case of Nuclear Accident or Radiological Emergency (1986); Status of Convention on Early Notifications of Nuclear Accident etc. will prove of utmost use to all concerned.

The purpose of research is to discover answers to questions through the application of scientific procedures. The main aim of research is to find out the truth which is hidden and which has not been discovered as yet. The basic types of research can be: descriptive vs. analytical; applied vs. fundamental; quantitative vs., qualitative; conceptual vs. empirical; and special. There are two basic approaches to research; quantitative, and qualitative.

As is obvious from the name of the title, this book imparts basic information on research methodology and systems analysis in the area of socio-environmental research. Major topics like-social environmental research; methods of data collection; analysis of water quality; systems approach to environmental problems; solid waste management; and management and handling of hazardous substances etc. will equip the researchers with sound background knowledge.