Long unknown in the West, the Biosphere established the field of biogeochemistry and is one of the classic founding documents of what later became known as the Gaia theory. It is the first sustainable expression of the idea that life is a geological force capable of altering the Earth's landforms, its climate, and even the composition of its atmosphere. A complete, unabridged translation has never been available in English until now. This edition, which includes extensive notes, an introductory essay that places the work in its historical context and explains its relevance for today's readers, as well as a foreword signed by a distinguished group of international experts, will be the definitive edition of this classic work. "What Darwin did for life over time, Vernadsky did for life in space on a geological level.".