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.

Heroic Capture at Sea Highlights Gaping Cavities in Toothfish Defence

An international response is needed to protect endangered fish from illegal over-fishing.
Andrew Darby
August 29, 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

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

Deforestation: The Hidden Cause of Global Warming

Governments overlook the many costs of destroying the world’s rainforests
Daniel Howden
May 19, 2008