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.

From Micro-Algae to Blue Oil

Industrial energy products from algae could be available by 2015
December 30, 2011

A Deal in Durban

Developed and developing nations must reduce emissions – by 2020
December 13, 2011

Divisions Deepen at UN Talks on Climate

Developed nations demand that emerging economies make sacrifices, too
Pilita Clark
December 3, 2011

German Automakers Embrace Car-Sharing

For young city dwellers, car ownership is not cool
Christian Wüst
November 14, 2011

The Three Challenges Facing the Electricity Sector

Industry and governments must collaborate to secure and diversify global energy supply
Jean-Paul Bouttes, François Dassa and Renaud Crassous
November 28, 2011