Thomas Friedman defines globalization as the inexorable integration of markets, nation-states, and technologies, making it farther, faster, deeper, and cheaper. It has accelerated the diffusion of technology thereby enabling efficient use, substitution, and management of scarce resources.
Relationship between globalisation and new technology
New technologies reduce the constraints of distance, time, and cost.
Efficient Resource Utilisation– Eg- Precision agriculture using satellite data and sensors to reduce water and fertiliser use.
Shift from Resource-Intensive to Knowledge-Intensive Growth– Eg- India’s IT-ITeS sector generating exports with minimal material input compared to manufacturing.
Global Diffusion of cleaner and resource-efficient technologies. Eg- Solar and wind technologies.
Integration into Global Value Chains (GVCs) – Technology enables countries to specialise in specific stages of production. Eg- India as the pharmacy of the world.
Resource constraints stimulate technological innovation for low-cost solutions for energy, healthcare, and mobility. Eg- telemedicine under eSanjeevani
The Circular Economy- Globalization facilitates the trade of “waste-as-resource” across borders.
Exposure to global markets compels efficiency and innovation. Eg- Indian manufacturing adopting automation and Industry 4.0 to remain competitive.
Technology for Resource Governance– GIS, remote sensing, and digital dashboards used for water management and climate action in India.
Collaborative R&D- globalization pools global intellect. Eg- ITER project for nuclear fusion involving the EU, US, India, and China.
Negative Impacts
Unsustainable Extraction of mineral resources- Eg- Massive Lithium mining in South America to fuel the global EV boom.
E-Waste Accumulation- Eg- Humanity produces 62 million tonnes of electronic waste every year.
Technological Imperialism- Eg- Disputes over “Intellectual Property Rights” (IPR) for high-efficiency carbon-capture tech.
Carbon Footprint of Logistics- Eg- global shipping and aviation account for ~10% of CO2 emissions.
Digital Divide- Access to tech itself becomes a “scarce resource.” Eg- Only 40% of the Global South having access to 5G.
Global competition for resources leading to conflicts
China’s weaponization of rare earth supply chains.
US attempt to take over Greenland
Obsolescence by Design- Tech firms globally produce short-lived products to drive sales, wasting minerals. Eg- Smartphones designed with non-replaceable batteries.
Labor Exploitation for Resources- Eg- Child labor in Cobalt mines in the DRC.
Impact on India
For India, the path forward lies in “Frugal Innovation” to ensure that the digital revolution does not come at the cost of the environment.