From physical geography to environmental geography: Bridges and gaps (a French perspective)

Abstract

Key Messages A clinical analysis of some linkages and gaps between physical and environmental geography is provided from a French perspective. Physical and environmental geography can be viewed either as enemy sisters or as incorporated within a fruitful scientific continuum. An inclusive version of environmental geography might offer an open space for human and physical geographers to collaborate in stitching together the once‐torn fabric of French geography.

The Role of Geographical Landscape Studies for Sustainable Territorial Planning

“…In contrast to the dualistic positions mentioned previously, we maintain that a more dialectical position is needed in geography, where both human and non-human factors are considered as a dialectical unity in order to explain certain environmental phenomena-a position that we consider the essence of geography, now called environmental geography [8,9,[24][25][26][27].…”

“…), modern environmental science is based on the postulates traditionally promulgated by geography [9,28]. Due to this situation, the environmental term has been added to geography, and environmental geography is considered an emerging science [26,27,29]. It studies environmental issues from a geographical perspective, which entails using knowledge and concepts typical of this discipline.…”