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.

Scientists Discover More Gases Attacking Ozone Layer

Release would violate Montreal Protocol
Pilita Clark
March 10, 2014

Nepal Forces Mount Everest Climbers to Double as Trash Collectors

The extra trash load is equal to about eight large books
Mark Johanson
March 7, 2014

Europe Flood Losses to "Increase Fourfold" by 2050

Most projected losses from human development rather than climate change
Matt McGrath
March 5, 2014

America's Energy Edge

Shale will contribute to lower energy prices and ongoing US influence
Robert D. Blackwill and Meghan L. O'Sullivan
February 26, 2014

Wavier Jet Stream “May Drive Weather Shift”

Climate change may not be so gradual after all
Pallab Ghosh
February 18, 2014