tokens: Economic development vs environment Currently, a great number of countries have pushed forward their economies by developing national industries . However, some people are worried that the economic targets in industrialized countries may be attained at the expense of the ecosystems . From my perspective, I think flourishing economies can go hand in hand with environmental preservation . Admittedly, some countries may place economic developments ahead of environmental protection, thus ruining the local environments . As these needy countries lack adequate financial and human resources, advanced technologies and experience, they have to rely on natural resources to maintain their living standards . Besides, people in the poverty-stricken areas are not likely to be equipped with knowledge to preserve the ecosystems . As a result, unchecked and reckless uses of the local raw materials may happen, which can put a strain on the natural resources . In this view, the economic development and environmental protection can be conflicting . However, I believe the booming economy can be closely linked to the preservation of the environment . With people raising their awareness of the green economy, the products free of pollutants are increasingly prevalent among clients, which means eco-friendly businesses can make a favorable impression on customers today, triggering sales . For example, electronic bicycles powered by clean energy resources have been well received among people in recent years . Furthermore, taking environmental consequences seriously can enhance working efficiencies . If a firm is environmentally conscious, it may have to make optimal use of its resources to improve its production lines and equipment, which can boost productivity . Therefore, it may spur its economic development . On the other hand, without the requirement of environmental preservation, the firm would still consume a vast amount of energy which constitutes a large part of its operational costs, being a hurdle to the economic development . Therefore, I would conclude that thriving economies and the preservation of ecosystems can be promoted simultaneously . On the other hand, I suppose the developed countries should support the underdeveloped areas by providing financial resources, technologies and experience so that the environmental problems can be effectively alleviated in these areas .