Key Theorist: Vandana Shiva

Vandana Shiva is an Indian environmental activist, and anti-globalisation author. Here are some of her key arguments:

1. Corporate globalisation is leading to the destruction of the environment: Shiva argues that corporate globalisation is a major contributor to the destruction of the environment. She suggests that this is due to the increasing control of natural resources by corporations, the production of waste and pollution, and the prioritisation of profit over sustainability.

2. The commodification of nature is a threat to biodiversity and sustainability: Shiva argues that the commodification of nature, including the privatisation of seeds and other natural resources, is a threat to biodiversity and sustainability. She suggests that this undermines the ability of communities to manage their own resources and can lead to environmental degradation.

3. Traditional knowledge and practices are crucial for sustainable development: Shiva argues that traditional knowledge and practices, including indigenous knowledge and traditional farming methods, are crucial for sustainable development. She suggests that these practices can provide more sustainable and equitable solutions to environmental and social issues than the industrialised approaches favoured by corporations.

4. Women's empowerment is essential for sustainable development: Shiva argues that women's empowerment is essential for sustainable development. She suggests that women are often the primary caregivers and managers of natural resources in their communities, and that empowering women can lead to more sustainable and equitable resource management.

5. Food sovereignty is necessary for food security: Shiva argues that food sovereignty, or the right of communities to control their own food systems, is necessary for food security. She suggests that this requires a rejection of industrialised agriculture and the promotion of more sustainable and equitable farming practices.

Overall, Shiva's work highlights the importance of prioritising sustainability, biodiversity, and community empowerment in the face of corporate globalisation and environmental degradation. She emphasises the importance of traditional knowledge and practices, women's empowerment, and food sovereignty in achieving these goals.