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

Preservation of Asia’s Forests: A Global Hurdle

Technology and global partnerships are key to saving the forests of developing countries.
Takeshi Toma
July 9, 2003

Ecologists Fear Disaster as Oil Rush Takes Grip in Quake Zone

Russian island to be turned into Japan's energy hub in project worth billions to Shell.
Nick Paton Walsh
August 25, 2003