One of the main concerns about expanding rates of economic growth focuses on the effects of congestion, pollution and carbon emissions on the environment. Economic growth in China and India raises fears that the resulting environmental damage could have serious impacts on us all. Other observers say that it is hypocritical for those in the developed world to preach to those trying to develop their economies.Economic growth is the loss of ancient ways of life and cultures. As countries industrialise, natural resources can be lost as more land is sought. The loss of huge areas of the Brazilian rainforest to cattle-ranching is an example of this effect.

Other adverse effects could be

• The 'one size fits all' view of economic development prevents subtle differences in the routes chosen to development.
• The search for faster economic growth may prevent countries concentrating on social goals such as care for the elderly or children.
• The acceptance of materialism as a general goal in life.
• The homogenised global culture that some observers say has arisen.

Genetic engineering may lead to Increased use of Herbicides-Scientists estimate that plants genetically engineered to be herbicide-resistant will greatly increase the amount of herbicide use.  Farmers, knowing that their crops can tolerate the herbicides, will use them more liberally.

More Pesticides-GE crops often manufacture their own pesticides and may be classified as pesticides by the EPA. This strategy will put more pesticides into our food and fields than ever before.

Ecology may be damaged-The influence of a genetically engineered organism on the food chain may damage the local ecology. The new organism may compete successfully with wild relatives, causing unforeseen changes in the environment.

Gene Pollution Cannot Be Cleaned Up-Once genetically engineered organisms, bacteria and viruses are released into the environment it is impossible to contain or recall them. Unlike chemical or nuclear contamination, negative effects are irreversible.