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.

Ocean Explorers Plant Russian Flag on Arctic Sea Floor

Russia challenges Canada’s claim to the North Pole, but accessing territory does not necessarily prove ownership
Randy Boswell
August 3, 2007

Russia Plants Arctic Flag

Accessing territory does not necessarily prove ownership
Randy Boswell
August 3, 2007

Food That Travels Well

Calculating food miles to deliver environmental protection could be like comparing apples and oranges
James E. McWilliams
August 8, 2007

Other Cities Sign Up to Turn Off

A symbolic hour of darkness sends a powerful message about energy conservation
John Huxley
August 9, 2007

Huge Dust Plumes From China Cause Changes in Climate

Grit, chemicals and other pollutants are crossing the Pacific from China
Robert Lee Hotz
August 13, 2007