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.

With growing quantity of garbage, solid waste disposal has become acute problem the world over due to its hazardous impact on life and environment. Hence emerged the need of scientific solid waste management.
Some pertinent issues are covered and interpreted in this book like—introduction; incineration; systems analysis; solid waste management services; managing the wastes; transportation of the solid wastes; waste materials; waste combustion etc.
The rich information contained in the book will be of utmost use to experts and laymen alike.

India is a nation of varied climates and ecosystems and rich in biodiversity. Due to excessive population and consequent encroachment on natural resources has changed all environmental equations. As such environmental conditions are deteriorating fast.

India’s current environmental position is portrayed with all angles. The vital readings contained in various chapters like—land management; forest management; atmosphere; hydrosphere; dams; environmental health; habitat; people and environment; living resources etc. will create awareness and sound knowledge about the environment of the country.

Te vectors of concern to public health are limited to a few species of arthropod insects. This difference is relevant to any discussion on pest control in agriculture as opposed to public health. Again, control, if not total eradication, of vector-borne diseases like malaria, filarial etc. should certainly get top priority in developmental goals. Three main strategies are available today for the control of pests: control by chemicals, control by biological method, and integrated pest management.
The toxic and hazardous impact of these chemical on human life sometimes proves alarming. This book covers scientific interpretation of many relevant vital issues like—Agricultural pollution; Adverse effects of pesticides; OECD Council Decision-Recommendation on Exports of Hazardous Waste from the OECD Area (1986); Agreement of Co-operation between the United States of America and the United Mexican States Regarding Pollution of Hydrocarbons and other Hazardous Substances (1980); Basel Convention on the Control of Tran boundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal (1989); Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production and Stockpiling of Bacteriological and Toxin Weapons and on their Destruction  (1972); Convention Concerning Prevention and Control of Occupational Hazards caused by Carcinogenic Substances and Agents (1974) etc.