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.

Global Warming and the Science of Extreme Weather

Severe weather, symptom of climate change, is a new normal
John Carey
June 29, 2011

Could Compost Piles Someday Heat a Home?

Sources of renewable energy could be hidden in plain sight
Kenneth Sturtz
June 28, 2011

China Proposes $15bn Indus Dam Scheme

Foreign investors eye Pakistan for dam project and natural resources
William MacNamara
June 21, 2011

Warning: Extreme Weather Ahead

Record-setting rains, temperatures, droughts and fires are the new normal
John Vidal
June 15, 2011

Activism Gets Rolling in Taiwan

Budding environmental movement reshapes economic development
Ralph Jennings
June 8, 2011