Globalization refers to the increasing integration and interchange of world views, products, and culture due to advances in transportation and telecommunications infrastructure like the telegraph and internet. While globalization has increased opportunities for education, employment, and access to cheaper products, it has also led to the loss of local cultures and traditions as things become more standardized worldwide. Environmental degradation is another disadvantage as increased business activity relies on exploiting natural resources. Disparity also remains as economic improvements are not evenly distributed.