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.

The World's Rubbish Dump: A Garbage Tip That Stretches From Hawaii to Japan

Debris swirls in the Pacific Ocean, compromising the world’s water and food systems
Kathy Marks
March 18, 2008

Shade Crusade: Why City Trees Are Good Medicine

Even as “green” products gain popularity among consumers, US cities eliminate trees
Sandra Hines
March 24, 2008

Final Text of Environment Deal Hammered Out

Individual environment concerns brings together nations for collective action
John Mason
September 3, 2002

Why is Russia Dragging its Feet on Kyoto?

Perhaps Russia is waiting for concessions such as accession to the World Trade Organization.
Michael Grubb
July 14, 2003

Global Approach Required to Tackle Food Prices

Governments have a moral obligation to prevent widespread starvation
Dominique Strauss-Khan
April 21, 2008