The Earth’s environment is the source of economic, social, cultural activities, with nature shaping human life over the centuries. The rapid growth in the world population, from 1 billion in 1830 to 7 billion today, add pressures for air quality, oceans, land use and resources as basic as water. Awareness is building about over-reliance on fossil fuels, how carbon and other emissions contribute to global warming and volatile weather. Every industry requires energy, and cross-border industrialization, transportation and other economic activities contribute to environmental degradation. Yet globalization also spurs awareness and activism over the need for global cooperation and standards to promote sustainability and environmental protection.

A Spanish Blowout: The Iberian Giants of US Wind Energy

In a tight credit market, small US wind companies struggle to survive
Mark Scott
November 4, 2008

The Last Days of Paradise

Immediate action on fossil fuels may not be enough to save some island and coastal homes
Jon Henley
November 11, 2008

Lump Together and Like It

A new World Bank Development report promotes urbanization as a critical engine of growth
November 10, 2008

Evicted from Coastal Homes

Spain strictly regulates residences along the coast, testing limits of EU jurisdiction
Dave Bull
November 10, 2008

Germany to Allow Import of GMOs

Agriculture minister presents strict regulations on the cultivation and sale of genetically modified crops and foods
Kristina Merkner
January 16, 2004