Effects of industrialization and modern technology on the environment

At the beginning of the 19th century, in the midst of the industrial revolution, the idea emerged that it was through economic growth and therefore the mastery of nature that the social question would be resolved and that the revolutionary era would be successfully brought to an end. Factories are sprouting like mushrooms all over the world.

Industrial activities can exert pressure and have impacts on the environment. They can also be a source of risks for staff and neighboring populations.

* The consequences of industrialization:

a. The positive consequences:

• Wealth creation

• Job creation (direct and indirect)

• Profits for the company

• Economic benefits for the region (taxes)

• Access to a greater quantity of products

• The reduction in consumer prices

• The development of infrastructure and development of services due to urbanization (roads, shops, services, etc.)

• RESULT: Improved quality of life.

b. Negative consequences:

• Pollution (water, atmospheric, visual, noise).

• Resource depletion due to mass production.

• Overconsumption.

• The large production of waste due to planned obsolescence.

• RESULT: Environmental degradation.