Globalization is bad
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Globalization destroys the environment
Globalization introduces an economic model that is incompatible with environmental protection.
Economics
Globalisation
Politics
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Context
Globalization increases global consumer demand. This sparks an increase in production to meet demand. Increased production means increased pressure on the environment and the faster depletion of natural resources.[1]
The Argument
Globalization results in increased international trade, lower prices and higher wages. These three factors create a higher demand for consumer goods.
To meet this rising demand, manufacturers increase production, which involves the exploitation of more raw materials. This places a larger burden on the earth and its resources—for example, increased demand for timber results in deforestation in the Amazon.
If we care about the environment, then we must consider the effects of globalization.
Counter arguments
If globalization contributes to environmental degradation, then periods of deglobalization would coincide with periods of reduced environmental destruction.
This is not what happens. Since 2008, the globe has been on deglobalization trend. Brexit, Donald Trump's trade war with China and opposition to multinational trade agreements are all indications of anti-globalization sentiment reflected in protectionist policy.[2]
But this period of protectionism has not coincided with a period of reduced environmental destruction.
Proponents
Premises
[P1] Globalization increases consumer demand.
[P2] Supply rises to meet the demand.
[P3] Natural resources are exploited in the supply chains.
[P4] Therefore, globalization leads to the increased exploitation of natural resources.
Rejecting the premises
[Rejecting P4] When globalization recedes, environmental degradation does not slow.