New UK population projections published this week provoked concerns that food and energy supplies cannot keep up. But it’s not just our numbers that are straining the limits.
Lights out in Nottingham or Nigeria?
Climate Camp protesters at Ratcliffe have a clear message. No more coal. Does this attribute of simplicity compromise the bigger picture of developing countries which lack electricity?
Fair blows the wind from Texas
Defying its image of big oil, Texas is fast attracting businesses at the cutting edge of wind technology. If Texas goes low carbon, there is no excuse for any of us.
It’s carbon, stupid
We all know people who accept that climate change is a serious problem but are too bored by the subject to take action. Try talking to them about the carbon cycle instead.
Perhaps this happened in other rooms
Daniyal Mueenuddin’s In Other Rooms, Other Wonders is likely to get my vote for book of the year. The publishers have also taken trouble with old-fashioned virtues of design.
Hard times for human rights ideals
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights remains an inspiring set of principles for a better world. The problem is that the custodians of the idealism have been unable to keep pace with political realities.
Corporate carbon blackmail is unethical
Big polluting companies in US and Europe are threatening to relocate if the terms of carbon trading schemes meet their disapproval. This is the unacceptable face of corporate blackmail.
The paradox of globalisation
Many of us who are critical of the process of globalisation have enjoyed its rewards. But we must speak out on behalf of the poor who continue to get a raw deal.
Comparing notes on HIV/AIDS and climate change
The characteristics of HIV/AIDS and climate change could not be more different. But there are remarkable similarities in the reluctance to change human behaviour that both crises have encountered.
Blair unfit to lead Europe on climate change
On a visit to China last week, Tony Blair said that encouraging people to reduce flying and driving is not an appropriate response to climate change. This is not good enough for a prospective president of the European Union.