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 Push to Increase Icebreakers in the Arctic

More traffic throughout the melting Arctic requires increased patrols
Andrew C. Revkin
August 20, 2008

Olympic Cloud

China should harness Olympic energy and take the lead in protecting the planet
Nayan Chanda
August 19, 2008

On the Campaign Trail

Science is not just an issue – it’s an attitude
June 24, 2008

McCain, Obama and Hot Air

The key to controlling climate change is producing more alternative energy, not less carbon
Bjorn Lomborg
July 17, 2008

More Pressure on Global Fish Stocks as Scientists Warn of Underreporting of Catches

Global fish supplies may be more limited than the world expects
Tim Radford
July 17, 2008