Question

Should international trade agreements be extended to include negotiations over environmental policy?

Answer 1

I think international trade agreements should be extended to cover environmental policy negotiations as well. The environment is affected by international trade as international trade affects the pattern of economic activities in different countries across the globe. Economic activities have direct effects on the environment. International trade influences the pattern of economic activities across the world. In order to gain competitiveness in international trade, countries might emphasize lowering costs which can result in production systems which are harmful to the environment. Therefore, trade and environment are interrelated and environmental policies should be negotiated along with trade agreements.