Illuminates the dilemma which will dominate the geopolitics of the 21st century: environmental breakdown, ozone depletion, soil erosion, deforestation and the decline of farmland fertility are all undermining the economies, public health and climate of many countries. Some countries now in conflict are involved in what are essentially environmental disputes and Dr Myers points out that early relief for environmental problems could have been supplied at a fraction of the cost of the aid now given to these devastated areas.