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 Is Real and Has Consequences – Part II

Trying to dodge fallout of climate change, firms reorganize supply-chain networks in Thailand and beyond
Pavin Chachavalpongpun
April 6, 2012

Global Warming Is Real and Has Consequences – Part I

Yale economist refutes climate-change skeptics who use his research to recommend standing pat
William D. Nordhaus
April 4, 2012

From Brussels to Durban: Debt and Climate Crises Spotlight Free Riders

Collective action flounders on EU’s fast-moving debt crisis and world’s slow-moving climate change
Scott Barrett
December 9, 2011

Darkening Skies on the Road to Durban – Part II

More than 400 indigenous groups of the Amazon may have strong opinions on sustainability
Andrea Armeni
November 23, 2011

Darkening Skies on the Road to Durban – Part I

Despite growing unease about an unstable climate, nations cling to 19th century energy habits
J.R. McNeill
November 21, 2011

Floods Threaten Global Trade Hub

Raging floods in Thailand disrupt global supply chains and exports, threatening economic security
Pavin Chachavalpongpun
October 24, 2011