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.

In Spain, Water Is a New Battleground

Too many Spaniards regard water as a limitless resource
Elisabeth Rosenthal
June 6, 2008

Climate Change After Kyoto – A Blueprint for a Realistic Approach

US presidential candidates support action on climate change but will face many obstacles
Peter J. Wilcoxen
May 28, 2008

Biofuels Deemed a Greenhouse Threat

The alternative-energy products become a political hot potato
Elisabeth Rosenthal
February 8, 2008

The Climate May Be Right for a Warming Bill

Legislation piles up in Congress, but little action is taken
February 6, 2008

Grand Designs Should Look to the Future

Nouveau-riche spending spree in the desert lacks accountability or sensible planning for the future
Chandran Nair
May 28, 2008