Is Globalisation Good for the Environment?

Professor Matthew Cole from the Birmingham Business School gives his Inaugural Lecture.

This lecture will examine the effect of globalisation – defined as the liberalisation of international trade and investment flows – on the natural environment. It will begin by examining the relationship between economic growth and the environment, and move on to consider the role played by international trade. A key part of this debate surrounds the extent to which international differences in environmental regulations can affect international patterns of trade and investment, often referred to as the Pollution Haven Hypothesis. The strength of the evidence supporting this hypothesis will be examined. Finally, the extent to which multinational firms may help or hinder the environment in developing countries will be assessed.

This lecture will be followed by a reception in the Business School Atrium.

Cost: Free of charge