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.

Apple Attacked Over Pollution in China

Environmental disasters among Apple’s suppliers are PR disasters for China
Leslie Hook, Kathrin Hille
September 13, 2011

An Amazonian Battle

Deforestation threatens climate-change efforts and a new president
Joe Leahy
August 31, 2011

The Challenging Billions

Job creation fails to keep pace with population growth
David Bloom
August 26, 2011

Huge Arctic Fire Hints at New Climate Cue

Wildfires test planet’s ability to cope with carbon
Richard Black
August 2, 2011

Emissions in the EU: US Vilifies Carbon-Trading Scheme for Airlines

The plan is expensive for those who refuse to clean up their act
July 29, 2011