Shows how the composition of the atmosphere has been affected by microscopic organisms of the ocean; climate by the Earth's vegetation; soil chemistry by microbes teeming on & beneath the planet's surface. Argues that several of today's principal environmental concerns -- such as global warming, acid rain, photochemical smog, & the degradation of ecosystems -- are tied to human interference in the biospheric cycles of carbon, nitrogen, & sulfur. Explores the links among environment, energy, food, population, economy, & society that will determine how these interferences shape the planet's future. Color illustrations.