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.

UK Consumers Add Solar Panels to Shopping Lists

Green energy goes from trendy to essential; British grocer stocks shelves with solar kits
Nina Chestney
March 7, 2011

World’s Sixth Mass Extinction May Be Underway

Humans could be on the road to efficient destruction of most species
March 4, 2011

Global Warming Blamed for Heavy Snowstorms, Record Floods

Climate scientists predict heavy snowfalls, rainstorms and flooding
March 3, 2011

Activists Go on Warpath Against Transgenic Crops—and Scientists

Chinese environmental activists question the safety of genetically modified rice
Richard Stone
February 28, 2011

Butterflies Make Partial Comeback in Mexico

Despite some occasional rebounds, the monarch butterfly population is in steady decline
Mark Stevenson
February 16, 2011