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.

Big Water Companies Quit Poor Countries

Risk-averse multinational water companies and opposition to privatization may condemn many to disease and death
John Vidal
March 22, 2006

Insurance Industry Feels the Heat of Global Warming

Record losses prompt insurers to take an active role in preparing for a changing climate
Derrick Z. Jackson
March 22, 2006

A Carbon Cloud Hangs Over Green Fuel

One step forward for ethanol production, two steps back for environmental benefits
Mark Clayton
March 29, 2006

One Man’s Drive to Clean Up the Earth

An American in Japan in a solo venture to ease global warming
Eric Prideaux
February 27, 2006

Caviar Trade Shut Down to Save Sturgeon

The taste for caviar has endangered sturgeon
CJ Chivers
January 17, 2006