"What is soil? Where does soil come from? What is special about soil in the northern latitudes? How do our activities affect soil? What are the links between soil and climate change? The first ever Soil Atlas of the Northern Circumpolar Region uses striking maps, informative texts and stunning photographs to answer and explain these and other questions. Leading soil scientists from Europe, Russia, Canada, Greenland and the United States of America have collaborated under the auspice of the International Polar Year 2007-2009 to produce this unique document. Using state of the art computer mapping techniques, the Soil Atlas of the Northern Circumpolar Region shows the changing nature of soil in northern territories.The Soil Atlas of the Northern Circumpolar Region explains the origin and role of soil, describes the different soil types that can be found in this environment and their relevance to global issues. The atlas also discusses the possible impacts of climate change on soil and the relationship between soil and global climate. The Soil Atlas of the Northern Circumpolar Region is more than just a normal atlas. Rather, this volume presents an interpretation of an often neglected natural resource that surrounds and affects us all."--pub. desc.