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.

Thirsty Giant

Despite economic gains, India fails to provide ample clean water for its people
Somini Sengupta
October 7, 2008

Green View: Testing Metal

The not-in-my-backyard syndrome chases environmental problems and jobs to remote locations
October 3, 2008

Our Vanishing Night

Reducing the glow of city lights – or light pollution – would save energy and species
Verlyn Klinkenborg
October 20, 2008

Green Energy Is Not a Middle-Class Conceit, More the Only Way Forward

Despite an economic downturn, development of alternative energy sources is imperative
Geoffrey Lean
October 22, 2008

Sending the Best Away

As a plutonium plant moves from Germany to China, the technology goes with it
Stefan Dietrich
December 12, 2003