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.

The Second Cooing: Raising Passenger Pigeons From the Dead

Research could minimize concerns over extinction
Philip Bethge
April 24, 2013

Baby Milk Rationing: Chinese Fears Spark Global Restrictions

China improves food-safety checks to appease upset parents
Celia Hatton
April 22, 2013

Baby Milk Rationing: Chinese Fears Spark Global Restrictions

China improves food-safety checks to appease upset parents
Celia Hatton
April 17, 2013

US Moves Toward Teaching Climate Change; Britain Does Opposite

The young expect to contend with climate science, politics
Christoper F. Schuetze
April 12, 2013

Warming Sign: 1600 Years of Ice in Andes Melted in 25 Years

Researchers connect weather patterns with historical events
Justin Gillis
April 9, 2013