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.

How We Decide Which Species to Save

Small animals like insects are overlooked
Christine Dell'Amore
December 31, 2013

China: 5 Great Things About Toxic Air

The news report tries for positive outlook on smog
Emily Rauhala
December 12, 2013

The Philippines’ Tough Rebuilding Task

Models for rebuilding can be found in Indonesia and China
Pacific Strategies and Assessments
December 9, 2013

Typhoon in Philippines Casts Long Shadow Over UN Talks on Climate Treaty

Delegates from small, poor nations worry about the cost of inaction
Henry Fountain, Justin Gillis
November 13, 2013

Typhoon Haiyan and the Geopolitics of Disaster Relief

Responses combine strategy and compassion
Rory Medcalf
November 12, 2013