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 Sludge Ends in Tragedy for Ivory Coast

Environmental disaster is a striking example of the dark “underbelly of globalization”
Lydia Polgreen
October 10, 2006

Natural Resources Are Fueling a New Cold War

Imagining a world without oil, more government leaders plan alliances and scout out supplies
Erich Follath
August 22, 2006

China Puts Price on Head of Rare Animals

Government sells hunting permits to foreign tourists to raise funds for conservation
Jonathan Watts
August 24, 2006

In Teeming India, Water Crisis Means Dry Pipes and Foul Sludge

An emerging economic power with fast-growing population confronts dire water shortages
Somini Sengupta
October 3, 2006

Is Russia Ready for a Shipping Boom?

Scientists and environmentalists fret that Russia’s ill prepared to manage or protect its trans-Siberian oil pipeline
Sarah J. Wachter
October 2, 2006