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.

Worst Drought in Half-Century Shrivels the Wheat Belt of China

Climate change could hike food prices and unemployment rates
Michael Wines
February 25, 2009

Revenge of the Rain Forest

Abuse of the Amazon could release billions of tons of carbon into the atmosphere
Steve Connor
March 6, 2009

Germany Joins EU in Tying Car Fees to Emissions

Emission taxes could slow demand for gas guzzlers
February 4, 2009

Indonesia Urges Global Boycott on Malaysian Timber

Tensions between Malaysia and Indonesia mount as illegal trade in rare logs continues
Fabiola Desy Unidjaja
February 13, 2004

Six 'Green' Mercs Heading Here for Test

Five parties agree to test hydrogen-powered cars, which will be shipped here from May; refuelling at BP station in Upper East Coast
Christopher Tan
March 4, 2004