Industrialisation at the age of digital revolution and environmental degradation

Abstract

Co-operatives, through collective bargaining, are capable of waiving the barrier for marginalised populace to participate in industrial economy and their principles, values and purpose made them ideal organisations for an inclusive socio-economic development worldwide. Also, wide sectoral coverage and the flexible nature of co-operatives create a window of opportunities to address dynamic challenges associated with the digital era and environmental sustainability, which constantly shape the Industrialisation process. This paper, therefore, used primary and secondary data to rhetorically assess what roles co-operatives play in Industrialisation at the age of digital revolution and environmental changes. The study came up with experiences of industrial co-operative examples from Tanzania in areas of agri-processing, dairy processing, tailoring and shoe making, among others, that relied on simple available technologies and raw materials. In addition, global trends in technology and environmental sustainability open up various opportunities for co-operatives. Consequently, non-traditional co-operatives are emerging and participating in various processes of Industrialisation and potentially will play an important role in Industrialisation under the fourth industrial revolution and current global environmental trends. However, for effective participation in Industrialisation, co-operatives will need an enabling environment; favourable governance, policy and regulatory frameworks; access to capital and technology, among others.