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.

Bye, Bye, Bananas

Fungus could overcome the Cavendish, the world’s leading export banana, in a few decades
Roberto A. Ferdman
December 25, 2015

COP21: A Potluck Dinner in Paris

Nations offer a hodgepodge of targets and pledges to reduce emission levels
John Cassidy
December 4, 2015

The Challenge of Urban Flooding

Economic disruptions of extreme weather are immense for large population centers like Chennai
December 3, 2015

Filipina Entrepreneur Shines at APEC

Engineer promotes lamps run on saltwater and sustainability as smart economics
Doris Dumlao-Abadilla
November 23, 2015

Why a Climate Change Deal Is the Best Hope for Peace

Volatile weather contributes to economic and security challenges
Jason Box and Naomi Klein
November 25, 2015