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.

Copenhagen: Yet Another Giant Beginning with an Uncertain End

To successfully avert climate change, a series of smaller deals is needed
Scott Barrett
December 21, 2009

Awaiting Climate Accord, Governments Toy With Dubious Measures

Nations may enact unilateral policies that would distort free-trade
Doaa Abdel Motaal
November 6, 2009

More Carrot and Less Stick Needed to Fight Global Warming

Punitive taxes are insufficient to reverse climate change
Emmanuelle Ganne
October 28, 2009

Beyond Copenhagen: How to Cool the Planet

The G20, not wrangling ministers, can work out a climate accord
Peter Heap, Barry Carin, Gordon Smith
October 21, 2009

China Rising: Have Cash, Buy Oil

Amid the financial chaos, China goes shopping
Dilip Hiro
October 9, 2009

Thai Workers Fly to Sweden Where the Wild Berries Are

Temporary work by thousands offer jam for Swedes and earning for Thais
Bertil Lintner
September 23, 2009