Exploring the environmental impacts of globalisation, this content delves into the interplay between economic growth and ecological sustainability. It examines the historical contributions of industrial activities to climate change, the role of modernisation theory in shaping global economic practices, and the political and economic dimensions of globalisation. The United Nations' strategies for climate change mitigation and adaptation are highlighted, alongside the contrasting consequences of globalisation on the environment.
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Globalisation refers to the growing interdependence of the world's economies, cultures, and populations through cross-border trade, technology, and flows of investment, people, and information
Industrial Activities of the Global North
The industrial activities of developed nations in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia and Oceania have historically contributed to human-induced climate change through CO2 emissions from burning fossil fuels
Pursuit of Industrialisation in the Global South
As developing nations in Africa, Latin America, and Asia pursue similar paths of industrialisation, the cumulative effects on global climate change are exacerbated
Modernisation Theory, endorsed by international institutions such as the IMF and World Bank, posits that economic underdevelopment in certain regions is due to the lack of adoption of Western-style economic practices and values
Political globalisation involves the collaboration of national governments in addressing global challenges through international organisations like the United Nations
Economic globalisation is characterised by the integration of national economies into the international economy through trade, investment, and technology
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
International NGOs play a crucial role in orchestrating collective action on global environmental issues
Intergovernmental Organizations (IGOs)
IGOs, such as the United Nations, are instrumental in coordinating international efforts to combat climate change
The UNFCCC, established in 1992, serves as a foundational treaty for global climate policy
The IPCC provides scientific assessments that guide international climate policy
The annual COP meetings are where world leaders negotiate and advance climate action
The adoption of the Paris Agreement in 2015 set binding commitments for countries to limit global temperature rise through national determined contributions (NDCs)
Mitigation involves reducing the rate and magnitude of climate change through efforts to lower greenhouse gas emissions and enhance energy efficiency
Adaptation focuses on adjusting to actual or expected climate impacts, including developing resilient infrastructure and improving agricultural practices