Ecological Impact of Industrialization

Prior to the Industrial Revolution, manufacturing was often done in people’s homes, using hand tools or basic machines. Industrialization displaced these into powered, special purpose machinery, factories and mass production.

The Industrial Revolution brought about a greater volume and variety of factory-produced goods and raised the standard of living for many people, particularly for middle and upper classes. However, life for the poor and working classes continued to be filled with challenges. Wages for those who labored in factories were low and working conditions could be dangerous and monotonous. Unskilled workers had little job security and were easily replaceable.

The fundamental effect of the Industrial Revolution on the planet that continues to resonate today with increasing influence is undeniably human population growth. Food production, agriculture, housing, land use, air pollution, energy production and consumption, sanitation, potable water issues and all other basic needs of human existence are directly correlated to the demands and usage of the resources available to us.

Fossil fuels still make up the world’s number one source of energy and electricity. Global energy consumption will continue to grow 56% through the year 2040, fossil fuels’ overall share of the global energy supply will fall to 75%, thanks to the growing use of renewable and nuclear energy (Source: Energy Information Agency). But still, fossil fuels remain the key sources of energy for the foreseeable future. And although the extreme necessity of fossil fuel use has brought about many unwanted, unhealthy and unforeseen environmental challenges – like man induced global warming effects.

According to World Wildlife Fund Global, today’s rapid loss of species is estimated to be between 1,000 and 10,000 times higher than the natural extinction rate. And this is directly due to habitat destruction.

Our responsibility is that we need to completely aware of these issues and we need to bring these kinds of things under control. So, better management, knowledge and foresight make things much better.

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