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.

Warming World Promises More Refugees

Climate change promises disruptions, and nations must develop policies to manage waves of refugees
Richard D. Lamm
January 14, 2016

Global Consensus on Climate Change Is a Good Start

COP21 agreement in Paris endorses voluntary approach for developing innovative policies, enforcement mechanisms, technologies
Scott Barrett
December 15, 2015

Can Paris Reconcile Political and Economic Interests to Combat Climate Change?

Politics, not economics, curtails smart investments to prevent climate change
David Dapice
December 10, 2015

COP21: China Prepares to Act on Climate Change

China, no longer balking on steps to stem climate change, leads emerging economies on reducing emissions
Isabel Hilton
December 1, 2015

However Welcome, Overdue US Climate Plan Falls Short

Centre for Science and Environment in India blasts the US action plan on climate change as business as usual
Sunita Narain and Chandra Bhushan
October 29, 2015

UN Development Goals Ignore Population Growth

UN sustainability goals should not overlook population growth centered in the poor, least developed countries
Joseph Chamie
September 22, 2015