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 Change Luck City: Dhaka’s Climate Refugees

The city lacks resources to handle the growing numbers
Nellie Le Beau and Hugh Tuckfield
August 12, 2016

How Climate Disasters Can Drive Violent Conflict Around the World

Study suggests climate change and resource shortages may exacerbate ethnic troubles
Chelsea Harvey
August 3, 2016

Why Brexit Freaks Out So Many Scientists

Cross-border collaborations are essential for science
Michael Greshko
June 28, 2016

Guess What Else Climate Change Hurts? Globalization

Volatile weather causes billions in damages, and productivity declines with rising temperatures
Eric Roston
June 15, 2016

Nature’s Answer to Climate Risk

Restoring natural coastal protections makes economic sense
Maria Damanaki
May 31, 2016