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.

EU Considers Emissions Fines on Chinese, Indian Airlines

Airlines pay a price for spewing carbon over Europe
James Kanter, John M. Broder, Neha Thirani Bagri
May 22, 2013

America's First Climate Refugees

US leaders ignore those who lose homes to extreme weather
Suzanne Goldenberg
May 14, 2013

Scientists Map Global Routes of Ship-Borne Invasive Species

Some ports report new species with every year
Matt McGrath
May 8, 2013

NASA Study Projects Warming-Driven Changes in Global Rainfall

Expect current rainfall patterns to be more pronounced
Kathryn Hansen
May 6, 2013

Beijing Is Booming; Talent Is Leaving Due to Bad Air

Swift environmental regulations could restore Beijing’s status
Peter Ford
April 29, 2013