| Positive | Negative | |
| Environmental | · Increased profits could lead to research in greener technology | · Pollution from manufacturing
· Deforestation in Brazil due to cattle ranching demand in western markets and China · Rural to urban migration leads to growth of slum Rochina in Rio · Over population and pressure on marginal land |
| Social | · Increased growth rates and rise of middle class
· More jobs from more consumption · Increase in health care · Reduction of poverty |
· Greater divide between rich and poor increased disparity and inequality (Gini Coefficient)
· Loss of culture due to cultural imperialism and Americanisation · Obesity due to western imported food |
BRIC Consumer Benefits from Economic Growth
- GDP per capita rise, and high purchasing power where standards of living improve, and higher demand for goods
- High consumer spending, potential room for growth
- Increased domestic consumption, promoting further job creation and reducing its dependency on exports.
Obesity
- Obesity in the developing world can be seen as a result of changes in diet, physical activity, health and nutrition, “nutrition transition”.
- Cities offer a greater range of food choices at cheaper prices.
- Urban work requires less physical activity and more women work away from home, less time to cook healthy meals.
Environmental Issues in China
- Rapid industrialisation and government have recognised the problem and harden environmental regulations.
- Some subsidies to polluting industries were cancelled, and some were shut down.
- Clean energy technology was promoted.
- Polluting industries continued to have access to inexpensive land, water, electricity, oil and bank loans.