Reader Response for "The Double Edge of Globalization" (1st draft)

  In Chanda’s work on “The Double Edge of Globalization”, he points out that expanded international trade, which contributes to urbanization and economic growth, leads to environmental destruction. I do not totally agree with the idea. In my opinion, instead of expanded international trade, the lack of global awareness is the root cause of environmental degradation.

  I cannot deny that intensified international trade encourages consumption and causes the loss of forest cover worldwide. For instance, according to Chanda, the environmental organization Greenpeace estimates that more than 2.5 million acres of tropical forest have been cleared by China in recent years to increase the demand for soybeans for other countries. However, I think the root cause of this phenomenon is not the trade but the lack of awareness. The nations choose to destroy the environment rather than using any other ways for their own economic benefits. It reveals that they fail to realise long-term conservation of environment is much important than short-term benefits.

  Chanda points out that global warming has the potential to shrink the global economy and paralyze the world. Indeed, this is an indisputable fact. However, many countries are still willing to wreak havoc on the global environment to maximize their outputs and profits. It shows us that the lack of awareness drives them to act without prudent consideration.

  I believe that consequences of expanded international trade can be ameliorated by the global awareness. Therefore, I agree with Chanda that international consensus on pollution reduction should be built via the cooperation by nations and powerful advancements in communication. Furthermore, I suggest that more energy-efficient technologies should be developed to curb the environmental degradation.