IGNOU MED - 008 Globalization and Environmental Notes In English Medium

Q1 - How is globalisation harmful to the environment? Discuss.

OR

Discuss the various aspects of globalisation that have adversely affected the environment.

Answer

Introduction

Globalization emerged as a major global process in the final years of the 20th century, transforming countries around the world into a global village. Its most significant form has been economic globalization, which grew rapidly in the areas of production, trade, and investment since the 1980s. However, along with this, its negative impacts on the environment have also come to light, which need to be understood and addressed.

Globalization

Globalization is a process through which the countries of the world, their economies, cultures, and markets become interconnected. This happens through the expansion of trade, technology, communication, and investment.

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Aspects of the Adverse Impact of Globalization on the Environment:

1. Industrialization and Pollution - Due to globalization, economic competition among countries intensified, leading to the large-scale establishment of industries. The smoke, chemicals, and waste released from these factories severely polluted the air, water, and land, badly affecting the environmental balance.

2. Overexploitation of Natural Resources - To meet the demands of the global market, minerals, forests, water, and energy resources have been continuously overexploited. This has not only reduced the availability of resources but also put biodiversity and ecological balance at risk.

3. Transportation and Carbon Emissions - The expansion of international trade has greatly increased
the use of water, air, and road transport. The greenhouse gases emitted from these means have increased the amount of carbon in the atmosphere, accelerating global warming and the pace of climate change.

4. Deforestation and Land Degradation - Large-scale deforestation has taken place for industrialization, agricultural expansion, and urbanization. This has destroyed the habitats of wild animals, reduced the fertility of the land, and had a negative impact on the entire ecosystem.

5. Excessive Use of Chemicals in Agriculture- To increase food production, modern agriculture is using chemical fertilizers and pesticides excessively, which is polluting soil and water sources. Additionally, growing only a single crop is also reducing biodiversity.

6. Increase in E-waste and Plastic Waste -Due to technological advancement and rising consumption, a large amount of electronic waste and plastic is being generated every year. As their recycling and disposal are not being managed properly, these wastes are severely polluting land, water, and oceans.

Conclusion

Ultimately, while globalization has increased economic opportunities on one hand, it has deepened the environmental crisis on the other. If environment-sensitive policies are not adopted, the benefits of globalization may also become harmful in the future. It is essential that globalization be redefined in accordance with the principles of sustainable development, so that a balance between environment and development can be maintained.

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