Venomous Earth is the compelling story of the worst chemical disaster in human history - unfolding now. It explores the geology, politics and biology of why tens thousands of people are dying, hundreds of thousands developing cancer and tens of millions of people are at risk in Bangladesh, India and beyond, from arsenic-contaminated well water.

Andrew Meharg compares this scenario with that in other areas of the world where drinking water is tainted with arsenic, such as extensive areas of South Western USA, the Alto Plano of South America and New Zealand's volcanic regions. He details historical precedents spanning thousands of years in mining and smelting communities, and due to the widespread use of arsenic in alchemy, farming, medicine and manufacturing. His tale takes in William Morris, Paracelsus, George W Bush and a cosmetic that killed two popes.

Finally Venomous Earth looks at how the current arsenic crisis is to be tackled and highlights new challenges to our ongoing struggle with the toxic element.

Andrew Meharg is Professor of Biogeochemistry at the University of Aberdeen where he studies and teaches on the impact of pollutants on the environment. His particular interest is how arsenic interacts with plants, animals and humans. In this capacity he has advised national and international government and aid bodies. Andrew has published numerous academic papers, book chapters and popular press articles on his research.

"There is much to praise in a book that will hopefully stimulate greater awareness of this tragedy." --Chemisty World

"The unfolding arsenic tragedy in Bangladesh and India compels far greater attention from the international community than it currently receives. Venomous Earth provides a fascinating account both of the historical role of arsenic in our lives, and the horrific impact of what has been called 'the largest mass poisioning of a population in history'." --Jonathon Porritt, The Forum for the Future
"Meharg is good on the technological and political challenges of testing water. He is terrific on the wider history of arsenic, in alchemy, industry and interior decorating." --The Guardian
"Meharg weaves stories of alchemy and toxic cosmetics, early health and safety law and the wallpaper of William Morris into an interesting and concisely told narrative."--New Scientist
"This book makes the scientific issues underlying a major human tragedy accessible to the average reader." --The Hindu
"FOUR STARS. Well worth reading." www.popularscience.co.uk
"One of the best books on arsenic one can read, beautifully compiling the science and history of the element." --Down To Earth Magazine

"This is an excellent treatment of a broad and complex topic, an outstanding piece of scholarship translated into popular science. This book should be read by all environment professionals academics and students. It is an excellent illustration of how to flesh out the bones of scientific fact by integrating it with a wider perception of human existence. Go out and buy it" -- Journal of Environmental Quality
"Meharg's explanations of the processes by which arsenic ends up concentrating in water-bearing strata are fascinating. He argues for preventive action so arsenic poisoning doesn't become more widespread. His warning is of great importance. It needs to be heeded." -- Chemical and Engineering News