Lesson 5.1

Section 1 Introduction

In what ways does globalization impact the environment?

Inquiry into the Issue

Consumers and Cellphones—In what ways does consumer demand for the latest in cellphone technologies impact the environment? The influence of contemporary globalization has led to concerns about the effects of economic globalization on the environment. There are diverse perspectives on whether stewardship is critical to preserving the environment and maintaining sustainable prosperity for future generations. In this section you will look at how globalization impacts the people, the land, and the environment. As an individual, what impact do you have on the environment? Explore the relationship between the consumer demand for cellphones and the sustainability of the environment. Notebook This is a required activity to support your inquiry but will not be graded. In your Notebook, record key ideas from the inquiry.

Research

This is a required activity to support the inquiry but may not be graded by your teacher.

Research the life cycle of a cellphone to gather an informed background for your inquiry. The following sources may be helpful

• GLOBE-Net.com is a Canadian website that offers environmental information about cellphones. 
• The Life Cycle of a Cellphone - http://www.ehow.com/about_6172749_life-cycle-cell-phone.html 
• Plug in to eCycling - http://www.epa.gov/osw/partnerships/plugin/
• Wirefly - The Life Cycle of a Cellphone - http://www.wirefly.com/learn/wireless_news/the-life-cycle-of-a-cell-phone/
• An example of an illustrated journey in pdf format is at http://www.epa.gov/osw/education/pdfs/life-cell.pdf

Research the following:

• Find out the types and locations of the resources used to manufacture cellphones.
• How do many people dispose of their old cellphones? How many cellphones are disposed of by consumers?
• What are impacts to the land, environment, your community, and the community that manufactures the cellphones?

Record your research in your Notebook.

Assignment

Please complete your Consumers and Cellphones Assignment at this time.