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.

India Is Suffering One of Its Worst Droughts in Decades

The monsoon may bring relief, but water should be conserved to account for seasonal variations
Archana Chaudhary
May 4, 2016

Mourn the Death of the Great Barrier Reef

More than 90 percent of the world’s largest coral reef system has been subjected to bleaching
Irene Banos Ruiz
May 3, 2016

Uncertainty Clouds Climate Deal as Nations Prepare to Sign Accord

Consistent government policies on subsidies could stabilize energy markets
Pilita Clark
April 22, 2016

Out of Africa

Climate change adds to desertification, migration, conflicts and extremism
Thomas L. Friedman
April 14, 2016

Natural Capital: What Is the True Cost of Food?

Agriculture and food processing can take a toll on land and water resources
Anna Behrend
April 8, 2016