Understanding Soils in Urban Environments

With the increase in urban sprawl, concerns such as soil sodicity, salinity and acidity are no longer problems for agriculture and forestry alone: they now create environmental and structural problems for engineering works. In addition, existing works contribute to urban soil erosion and pollution as well as increased levels of urban runoff. In Understanding Soils in Urban Environments, the authors explain how urban soils develop, change and erode. They detail their physical and chemical properties and focuses on the specific soil properties that cause environmental concern and can also affect engineering works. The book will be of use to those interested in urban soil conservation, soil management and urban development, and will increase awareness of the potential problems of urban soils among local planners and developers.