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.

McCain's Gift to the Green Movement

Environmentalists expect more campaign debate on the issue of global warming
Eric Pooley
May 14, 2008

Brussels Blocks Austrian Attempt to Create GM-Free Zone

European Commission says move would flout EU-wide rules.
Andrew Osborn
September 3, 2003

Bush Covers Up Climate Research

White House officials play down its own scientists' evidence of global warming.
Paul Harris
September 21, 2003

Bee Emergency: Unexplained Mass Die-Off Hits German Hives

Pesticides attack all insects – not just the pests
Andrew Curry
May 12, 2008

Polar Bear to Be Designated As Threatened Species

Climate change leaves polar bears – and economies that rely on oil – on thin ice
Ian Talley
May 15, 2008