Containerisation is a key process that continues to drive
globalisation. This is the process whereby freight is transported using shipping
containers with standardised dimensions. It has changed docklands across the
world and means that loading and unloading goods (onto a range of transportation
vehicles) has become quick and efficient. Containerisation was first developed
after World War II and lead to reduced transport costs. It supported the post-war
boom in international trade and has continued to aid globalisation. By 2009
approximately 90% of non-bulk cargo worldwide is moved by containers stacked on
transport ships!
I think containerisation is a very interesting aspect of
the globalisation story. This method of moving resources has allowed production
and delivery of goods worldwide. Without this container system it could be
argued that globalisation would not have been as quick to develop. I watched this programme (http://www.bbc.co.uk/i/scpzn/)
when it was first broadcast and found it to be excellent ‘horizon-style’
documentary. It covers the basic principle and benefits of containerisation as well as some of the negative
aspects i.e. smuggling/counterfeit goods. It may not be worth showing the
entire programme to a class but a few '3-minute-clips' could be selected and
discussed. I think this would provide a suitable starter or one-off lesson within
the broader topic of globalisation.
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