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.

China Aims for Bigger Share of South Asia's Water Lifeline

Conflict over water supplies could slow development in Asia
Brahma Chellaney
July 2, 2007

World Bank Targets Forest Preservation – Climate Link

The bank embarks on a pilot program – paying countries not to destroy the rain forests
Tom Wright
June 14, 2007

Both Sides Say Project Is Pivotal Issue for Brazil

Brazil must determine whether it wants to be known for lush rainforest or ample power supply
Larry Rohter
June 23, 2007

Water Meet Highlights Isolation

"At the World Water Forum, 182 countries came together to deal with common problems, but ended up showing that Taiwan is an island in more ways than one"
Chiu Yu-Tzu
March 25, 2003

Offsetting Environmental Damage by Planes

Plant a tree, be guilt free. Environmental companies come up with diverse ways to reduce global warming, but few warm up to their cause.
Harry Rijnen
February 18, 2003