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.

East Africa Famine Threatens Regional Stability, USAID Chief Says

Food security is linked to international security
Joshua Hersh
July 20, 2011

The Decline of Agriculture?

Extreme weather makes farming a gamble
Dahr Jamail
July 18, 2011

BC Eyes Ban on Home Use of Pesticides

Canada move stops homeowners from poisoning lawns and selves
Randy Shore
July 8, 2011

Megafires May Change the Southwest Forever

Drought and human mismanagement help fuel record-setting fires
Brandon Keim
July 1, 2011

Google: Delaying Clean Energy Transition “Only 5 Years Could Leave Trillions on the Table”

Government policies could spur energy innovation, creating jobs and saving billions
Stephen Lacey
June 30, 2011