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.

Climate Change: We Have No Solution Yet

Globe balks at a carbon tax
Robert J. Samuelson
May 13, 2014

Water Scarcity Challenges to Business

Better pricing, regulation, conservation could prevent economic disruptions
Arjen Y. Hoekstra
May 2, 2014

Agreement Reached on Deep Sea Mining

Environmentalists warn of long-term damage
David Shukman
April 28, 2014

Coal Politics in an Unequal World

NGOs target developing nations and not the big exporters
Sunita Narain
April 22, 2014

China's Air Pollution Leading to More Erratic Climate for US, Say Scientists

Environmental protection is an economic priority
Jonathan Kaiman
April 17, 2014