ABSTRACT
The environmental and geographical sciences have experienced enormous and speedy changes during the last half century. Many of these changes were undoubtedly sparked off by technological developments begun during the Second World War. The war effort forced science and technology to evolve swiftly. Discoveries and inventions started before the outbreak of hostilities were turned hastily into practical applications. The applications involved new technologies, many of which were later to play a key role in environmental and geographical research. Radar, nuclear fission, ballistic missiles, electronic digital computers, and pesticide (DDT) manufacture were all to have a deep impact on environmental and geographical enquiry. Some of these developments impinged directly upon environmental and geographical thinking; others worked indirectly through later, related innovations. Digital computers had a direct, if delayed, influence that facilitated the wide application of complex mathematical models and so environmental modelling, and that made possible the establishment of geographical information systems. Ballistic missiles had an indirect influence when rockets were used to launch artificial satellites, a result of which was the rapid proliferation and development of remote sensing technology. Remote sensing and geographical information systems technologies were then combined in specialized systems for earth observation.
