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 World Wants Vancouverism – Shouldn’t Canada?

Cities around the world look to Vancouver as model to avoid urban sprawl
Doug Saunders
March 5, 2013

A Report Card for Global Food Giants

None of the brands rank high in Oxfam report
Stephanie Strom
March 1, 2013

Sea Urchin Nickel “Trick” Key to Capturing Carbon?

Multidisciplinary research turns up surprise that could stem climate change
Matt McGrath
February 18, 2013

Meteorite Explodes Over Russia, More Than 1,000 Injured

Russians' dashboard cameras give world firsthand look at rare event
Andrey Kuzmin
February 16, 2013