Impacts of Globalisation: Economic, Social & Environment

Globalisation: A Connected World

An analysis of economic, cultural, and environmental impacts | Grade 13 GFS

Presentation Outline

01. Definition & Core Concepts

02. Drivers: Technology & Logistics

03. Economic & Social Advantages

04. Critical Perspectives: Inequality & Environment

05. Globalisation in Everyday Life

06. Conclusion

1. What is Globalisation?

Globalisation is the increasing interaction and integration among people, companies, and governments worldwide.

Driven by international trade and investment.

Aided by information technology.

2. The Drivers of Globalisation

Communication Technology

The Internet, fiber optics, and smartphones allow instantaneous global communication and real-time financial transactions.

Logistics & Transport

Containerization drastically reduced shipping costs. Approx. 90% of non-bulk cargo worldwide is moved by container.

Visualizing Global Trade Growth

Global exports of goods (in Trillion US Dollars)

3. The Advantages

Economic Efficiency

Access to a global market leads to lower consumer prices and more product variety.

Development

Investment (FDI) creates jobs in developing nations, lifting millions out of extreme poverty (e.g., China, India).

Cultural Exchange

Sharing of ideas, cuisine, art, and knowledge across borders.

4. The Disadvantages

Exploitation of Labor

Poor working conditions in developing countries, "sweatshops," and lack of labor rights.

Inequality

Profits often flow to multinational corporations, widening the gap between rich and poor.

Loss of Cultural Identity

Local traditions replaced by global brands (McDonaldization).

Environmental Impact

Increased Transport Emissions

Global logistics rely on fossil fuels. The shipping industry emits ~3% of global greenhouse gases.

Outsourcing Pollution

Companies move production to countries with weaker environmental regulations.

5. Globalisation in Everyday Life

The Smartphone

Designed in California, assembled in China, screen from Korea, minerals from Africa.

Fast Fashion

T-Shirts produced in Bangladesh for European markets at rock-bottom prices.

6. Conclusion

Globalisation is neither inherently 'good' nor 'bad'. It is a complex reality.

Outlook

While it generates wealth and connects us, it requires better international regulation to protect human rights and the environment. We cannot turn back the clock, but we can shape the future.

Thank you for listening

Any questions?

Sources

• World Trade Organization (WTO) Data 2022<br>• The Economist: 'The Future of Globalisation'<br>• National Geographic: Environmental Impacts