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.

Salmon Fishers Demand a Seal Cull

Dominant predators threaten the long-term survival of fish and other populations
Henry McDonald
August 29, 2008

Kyoto's Not Dead Yet

Russians may just be playing a game of brinkmanship
December 3, 2003

Will Global Warming Trigger a New Ice Age?

If climate change disrupts ocean currents, things could get very chilly
Bill McGuire
November 13, 2003

The World Must Keep its Nerve over Kyoto

Both investment in technology and emissions caps are integral to halting climate change
Michael Grubb
November 13, 2003

The World's Sweatshop

Foul Water and Air Part of Cost of the Boom in China's Exports
Joseph Kahn
November 4, 2003