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.

Storm Surge

The best way to reduce the high costs of extreme weather events is to slow coastal development
Bjorn Lomborg
September 7, 2007

The Great Leap Backward?

China's environmental woes spill over its borders, risking economic growth and international reputation
Elizabeth C. Economy
September 7, 2007

Biofuelling the Food Crisis

Farmers confront a choice of growing fuel for the rich versus food for the poor
John Vidal
September 10, 2007

The New Myth About Climate Change

Some government reactions to climate change could be more damaging than the heat itself
Idean Salehyan
August 17, 2007

China Cancels Environmental Report

In this case “no news” is not good news for the environment
Mitchell Landsberg
July 27, 2007