Pollution and other environmental damages are caused by a country developing and becoming richer. This problem cannot be avoided. To what extent do you agree?

Some people argue that it is impossible for developing countries to

further

develop without damaging the environment. In their opinion, economic growth should be the

first

priority of the government. I do not agree with

this

view. In my opinion, economic growth is important, but it cannot be at the expense of the environment. To commence with, when nations develop, they will require more resources.

For example

, developing countries like India and China need more fuel to power their growth. To explain, excessive consumption of fossil fuels, unfortunately, leads to the emission of carbon dioxide and accelerates the rate of global warming. Countries could better handle

this

problem if they start developing sustainable sources of

energy

. Another point to consider is that, all countries should invest in green and clean

energy

sources.

For example

, in nations lying on either side of the equator there is considerable potential for harnessing solar

energy

. Countries that produce excess amount of green

energy

can sell it to other countries. Rich nations that are technologically and scientifically more advanced should share the newer and greener technologies with poor and developing nations for a better tomorrow.

Finally

, Environmental problems are not limited to any particular country and it is foolish to claim that only those nations that pollute should do something about it. Before long, the impact of pollution caused by rapidly developing nations will

also

be felt in the developed world. To conclude, since our survival depends on the environment, we cannot ignore environmental problems on the pretext that they are a byproduct of development. Of course, there is a need for development, but it is time we said no to developing nations will

also

be felt in the developed world.