Resource Pressures and Biodiversity Loss
China's economic growth has led to increased resource exploitation and significant impacts on biodiversity.
Resource pressures:
- Despite abundant oil, coal, and key metals like iron ore, China's domestic resources cannot meet its growing demand
- The Chinese government has sought additional resources in Africa and Latin America
- Amazonian rainforest has been cleared to meet China's consumption needs
Example: China's resource demands have led to deforestation in the Amazon, illustrating the global impact of its economic growth.
This situation highlights the global nature of China's resource consumption and its environmental impacts beyond its borders.
Biodiversity loss:
- China's terrestrial vertebrate population has declined by 50% since 1970
- The main cause is habitat loss and degradation of natural environments due to economic development
Highlight: The 50% decline in terrestrial vertebrate populations since 1970 underscores the severe impact of China's economic development on biodiversity.
These environmental challenges demonstrate the complex relationship between economic growth and ecological sustainability. As China continues to develop, addressing these issues will be crucial for ensuring long-term environmental and economic stability.
The effects of globalization in China have been far-reaching, transforming the country's economy, society, and environment. While bringing significant benefits in terms of poverty reduction and improved living standards for many, it has also created new challenges that will require innovative solutions and sustainable practices to address.