Editorials in 2008

Stem-cell research is in danger of falling foul of haste.

Giving drug firms immunity from prosecution over inaccurate labelling would not serve the public.

Universities should target the challenges that a virtual technology powerhouse probably won't meet.

The water shortage that threatens humanity will have wide-ranging consequences for agriculture and energy production, requiring significant shifts in the way this precious resource is managed.

With the right infrastructure, the forces threatening to destroy the world's trees could be their salvation.

The fight against agricultural diseases in the United States has been boosted by fresh funds and a national monitoring network. But these advances are being undermined by inflexible bureaucracy.

Official advice on vaccination is too often poorly transmitted.

More than ever, academics in Iran and in nations hostile to it should communicate with each other.

The recent media flap over antidepressants highlights the need for data to be transparent — and for a mandatory database of all clinical trials.

The director of the Environmental Protection Agency is sabotaging both himself and his agency.

The battle against anti-scientific literalism continues. Next stop Texas.

With money now flowing in, the fight against malaria must shift from advocacy to getting results.

The Spanish government has doubled research spending in four years. The next government must create the legal structures to ensure that this money is wisely spent.

Cellulosic biofuels are part of an emerging US energy policy, from which other regions can learn.

Japanese science needs its women more than ever. Why doesn't it treat them accordingly?

Canada has been scientifically healthy. Not so its government.

A rogue senator needs to be bypassed.

Efforts by the Ministry of Defence to block offshore wind farms is at odds with Britain's long-term security.

The world's only agency for assuring global standards and security in nuclear installations needs an upgrade. This cannot be done on the cheap.

Providing context for sensitive declarations is the job of industry and government.