One of the most significant developments in archaeology in recent years
is the emergence of its environmental branch: the study of humans'
interactions with their natural surroundings over long periods and of
organic remains instead of the artifacts and household items generally
associated with sites. With the current attention paid to human
responsibility for environmental change, this innovative field is
recognized by scientists, conservation and heritage managers and
policymakers worldwide. In this context comes Environmental Archaeology
by Elizabeth Reitz and Myra Shackley, updating the seminal 1981 text
Environmental Archaeology by Myra Shackley. Rigorously detailed yet
concise and accessible, this volume surveys the complex and technical
field of environmental archaeology for researchers interested in the
causes, consequences and potential future impact of environmental change
and archaeology. Its coverage acknowledges the multiple disciplines
involved in the field, expanding the possibilities for using
environmental data from archaeological sites in enriching related
disciplines and improving communication among them. Introductory
chapters explain the processes involved in the formation of sites,
introduce research designs and field methods and walk the reader through
biological classifications before focusing on the various levels of
biotic and abiotic materials found at sites, including: Sediments and
soils. Viruses, bacteria, archaea, protists and fungi. Bryophytes and
vascular plants. Wood, charcoal, stems, leaves and roots. Spores, pollen
and other microbotanical remains. Arthropods, molluscs, echinoderms and
vertebrates. Stable isotopes, elements and biomolecules. The updated
Environmental Archaeology is a major addition to the resource library of
archaeologists, environmentalists, historians, researchers,
policymakers--anyone involved in studying, managing or preserving
historical sites. The updated Environmental Archaeology is a major
addition to the resource library of archaeologists, environmentalists,
historians, researchers, policymakers--anyone involved in studying,
managing, or preserving historical sites.
