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.

Germany Sells Vision for “Green Toys” to World

Green toys prepare children for the future
Melissa Eddy
February 9, 2011

Floods Hit Key Coal Area

Floods in rural Australia threaten global coal and steel prices
Kris Maher, Robert Guy Matthews
January 14, 2011

UK Snow

Weather – and a lack of preparation – disrupts UK travel
David Millward
December 22, 2010

To Conquer Wind Power, China Writes the Rules

China imposes strict rules for foreign companies operating in its borders
Keith Bradsher
December 16, 2010

Nations That Debate Coal Use Export It to Feed China’s Need

Wealthy nations unload their dirty coal onto China
Elisabeth Rosenthal
December 3, 2010