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 Problem with Abandoning the Paris Agreement

Withdrawal could invite international backlash
Robinson Meyer
November 30, 2016

Trump Gives Carbon Price Foes New Line of Attack

China and other countries view alternative energies as a means for economic growth
Aaron Wherry
November 17, 2016

Africa Unplugged

Low-cost solar power lets many access electricity, including charging smartphones and lighting homes
November 9, 2016

UNICEF: 300 Million Children Breathe Toxic Air

Satellite imagery confirms the pollution is most severe in South Asia and Africa
November 4, 2016

Climate Change and the Risks of Denying Inconvenient Truths

US leaders are in denial about how a warming planet will disrupt many industries
Martin Wolf
November 2, 2016