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.

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

Hard Realities: Brazil Drops Resistance to Genetically Altered Crops

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is accused of betraying his principles for the sake of trade
Larry Rohter
September 28, 2003

Unnatural Disasters

Global warming could create 150 million environmental refugees - but the countries responsible are in no hurry to carry their share of the costs
Andrew Simms
October 15, 2003