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.

The Tsunami Report Card

Relief that lives up to its name
Karl F. Indefurth
December 21, 2005

Ears of Plenty

A tribute to the world's most prevalent grain
December 21, 2005

Sugar Powers a Revolution on Brazil’s Roads

Bio-fuel movement is gaining momentum on petrol station forecourts
Tom Phillips
November 23, 2005

Mission to Save Planet is “Failing”

Pessimism on issues from the environment to the economy
December 6, 2005

China’s Next Big Boom Could be the Foul Air

In its drive for high growth, China is seriously harming the environment
Jim Yardley
October 31, 2005