Global trade has a profound and often negative impact on environmental sustainability. The increased volume of goods being transported globally contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, primarily through shipping, air freight, and road transport. This exacerbates climate change and associated environmental problems. Manufacturing processes, often located in countries with weaker environmental regulations, can lead to pollution, resource depletion, and habitat destruction. The demand for raw materials to fuel production further intensifies these pressures. Furthermore, global trade fuels consumerism, leading to increased waste generation and resource consumption. The 'throwaway culture' associated with many consumer goods places a heavy burden on landfills and natural resources. While there are efforts to promote sustainable trade practices (e.g., eco-labeling, carbon offsetting), these are often insufficient to offset the overall environmental impact. The concept of 'embodied carbon' – the carbon footprint of a product throughout its entire lifecycle – highlights the hidden environmental costs of global trade. Addressing these impacts requires a multi-faceted approach, including stricter environmental regulations, promotion of circular economy principles, and changes in consumer behaviour.

Key considerations for a strong answer:

• Discussion of transportation emissions (shipping, air freight, road)
• Analysis of the environmental impact of manufacturing processes
• Consideration of the role of consumerism and waste generation
• Reference to embodied carbon and circular economy principles
• Evaluation of the effectiveness of current efforts to promote sustainable trade

Model Answer:

Tourism patterns are highly varied, influenced by a complex interplay of factors. A strong example is the Mediterranean region. Historically, the Mediterranean has attracted tourists due to its climate – mild winters and hot summers – ideal for sunbathing and outdoor activities. Accessibility via air travel has significantly boosted tourism, with numerous airports serving popular destinations like Spain, Italy, and Greece. Cultural attractions, including ancient ruins (e.g., Rome, Athens), historical sites, and diverse cuisines, further contribute to its appeal.

However, these patterns are changing. Climate change is leading to more extreme weather events (heatwaves, droughts, floods) which can deter tourists and damage infrastructure. The rise of sustainable tourism is also influencing patterns. There's increasing demand for eco-tourism and responsible travel, leading to a shift away from mass tourism in some areas. Furthermore, global economic trends (e.g., the rise of tourism in Asia) are diverting tourist flows. The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically altered these patterns, with domestic tourism becoming more prevalent and international travel experiencing significant disruptions. The future of Mediterranean tourism will likely involve adapting to climate change, embracing sustainable practices, and diversifying its offerings to cater to evolving tourist preferences.

Global trade has undeniably played a significant role in the economic growth of many developing countries, but the extent of this contribution is complex and varies considerably. Opportunities include access to larger markets, increased foreign direct investment (FDI), technology transfer, and the potential for specialization and economies of scale. For example, countries like China and Vietnam have experienced rapid economic growth by integrating into global supply chains. This has led to job creation, higher incomes, and improved infrastructure. However, these opportunities are often accompanied by significant challenges. Developing countries frequently face issues such as unequal terms of trade, vulnerability to volatile commodity prices, exploitation of labour, and environmental degradation. The 'race to the bottom' in labour standards and environmental regulations is a common concern. Furthermore, dependence on specific export commodities can make economies vulnerable to external shocks. The impact of global trade is therefore not uniformly positive; while it offers considerable potential for growth, realizing this potential requires careful policy-making, strong institutions, and international cooperation to address the inherent inequalities.

Key considerations for a strong answer:

• Specific examples of developing countries (e.g., China, Vietnam, Bangladesh)
• Discussion of both opportunities and challenges
• Analysis of the role of FDI and technology transfer
• Consideration of unequal terms of trade and commodity dependence
• Reference to potential environmental and labour issues