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.

US Congress Blocks World Bank Move to Slash Safeguards

US will vote against development grants. loans with weak environmental or human-rights protections
January 16, 2015

Bill Gates Drinks Water Distilled From Human Sewage

Human waste is 80 percent water
January 16, 2015

US Congress Blocks World Bank Move on Safeguards

US will vote against development grants. loans with weak environmental or human-rights protections
January 12, 2015

Oil’s Well to Stop Binging

Governments could use respite to diversify and invest in alternatives
Nayan Chanda
January 9, 2015

Managing Climate Change

Engaging in thoughtful urban planning is required
Nicholas Stern
January 8, 2015