The function of the intricate patterns in the webs of orb-weaver spiders is subject to much debate in the scientific community.

BBC: Quiz of the week's news

Sadik-Khan counters that she works with the city's 59 community boards and runs extensive analyses of traffic patterns before blocking off streets.

FORBES: Companies, People, Ideas

Effects can include a degraded physical environment, less predictable weather patterns, and social disruption leading to a loss of a sense of community, continuity, security and autonomy.

ECONOMIST: Letters

Adopt patterns of production, consumption and reproduction that safeguard Earth's regenerative capacities, human rights and community well being.

CNN: Earth Charter sets course for sustainable living