To waht extend does globalization affect sustainability?

Question

To waht extend does globalization affect sustainability?

Answer 1

Interesting question. The net effect is clearly negative, but it is hard to quantify.

Several elements are clear:

1. To the extent that markets are global rather than local, there is greater incentive to over-exploit any local resources, simply because there is much greater demand.

2. To the extent that capital can move freely around the globe, it becomes easier to invest in large facilities to serve the global market.

3. To the extent that goods and people are moving long distances (i.e. all over the world) the resources used for transportation have to increase, with concomitant environmental damage.

4. To the extent that large corporations are global, they can and do acquire a great deal of clout, making it easier for them to get their way when dealing with local governments trying to protect the environment, ensure sustainable development, etc.

For a somewhat more optimistic approach, take a look at the report you can download here:

http://www.sustainability.com/researchan...

Or this site:

http://www.wupperinst.org/globalisation/

I found this enjoyable, interesting, and relevant:

http://www.alastairmcintosh.com/articles...