1. The Theory of Himalayan Environmental Degradation: what is the nature of the perceived crisis? 2. The Himalayan Region: a geographical overview 3. When did Deforestation Occur? An historical perspective on Himalayan forestcover changes 4. Perceived Pressures on the Himalayan Forests and Their Role as Environmental Shield 5. Mountain Slope Instability: natural processes or human intervention? 6. The Himalayan-Lowland Interactive System: do land-use changes in the mountains affect the plains? 7. The Human Dimension: what are the facts? 8. Two Approaches to the Population Pressure - land productivity decline problem in the Himalaya 9. Crisis, Pseudo-crisis, or Supercrisis? 10. Research Strategy for the Himalayan RegionThis major account considers the human and physical geography of the Himalayan region, and the extent of the problems facing it. Additionally, in exploring the historical perspective, it presents a detailed study of the area's complex dynamics.`This is an important book that deserves to be read by everyone concerned with presenting major environmental issues.' Geography ` . an essential text for policy makers and aid professionals, as well as for students of environmental studies and international development . It is indeed, a book appropriate to the urgent and critical issues which it addresses.' - Journal of Environmental Management