economies

A barrel of oil costs twice as much today as it did a year ago, and experts say prices could go higher. According to new data from the Philippine government, 4 million Filipinos slid back into poverty in 2006 as a result of rising oil prices and a higher cost of living. In addition, Chinese demand for oil is increasing by 15 percent a year,

Panelists in this session argue that global crises related to the escalating demand and inadequate supply of fresh water are as urgent as - yet more vexing and complicated than - efforts to tackle climate change. There is broad recognition today that water stress poses a risk to economic growth, human rights, health, safety and national security.

President Bush addresses attendees of his Meeting of the Major Economies held at the State Department, to discuss global solutions to the problem of climate change while maintaining economic growth.