Infrastructure – The basic equipment and structures (such as roads, utilities, water supply and sewage) that are needed for a country or region to function properly
To remember the meaning of the term Infrastructure, use the following mnemonic:
In order for a structure (infrastructure) to be built, you need roads and electricity pylons, to name but a few of the requirements to function.
Investment in infrastructure can boost the economy of a country by increasing its potential supply capacity. As an example, improving transport links makes workers more mobile, which in turn makes labour markets more efficient, thereby increasing productivity.
However, increased infrastructure can be harmful to the environment. The surge towards improved infrastructure in some developing countries is causing increased CO2 emissions and destroying wildlife environments, leading to reductions in biodiversity.
