Question 1: What is 'sustainable development'?

Answer: Development that meets current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Question 2: Define 'renewable resource' with an example.

Answer: A resource that can be replenished naturally over time, such as solar energy.

Question 3: What is 'resource depletion'?

Answer: The consumption of a resource faster than it can be replenished, leading to scarcity.

Question 4: Name the primary energy resource used in Texas for electricity generation.

Answer: Natural gas.

Question 5: Explain the concept of 'water scarcity' in the context of the southwestern US.

Answer: Water scarcity refers to the lack of sufficient available water resources to meet the demands of water usage within a region, often caused by overuse, drought, or poor management, as seen in parts of California and Arizona.

Question 1: Which US state is most affected by water scarcity due to over-allocation of the Colorado River?

Answer: California

Question 2: Name one mineral resource that is extensively mined in Nevada.

Answer: Gold

Question 3: What is the main challenge of managing renewable energy resources like wind and solar in the US?

Answer: Intermittency of supply and storage issues.

Question 4: Describe how urbanization affects resource demand in US cities such as New York and Los Angeles.

Answer: Urbanization increases demand for water, energy, and land, leading to greater resource extraction and potential environmental degradation.

Question 5: Identify two environmental impacts of oil extraction in the Gulf of Mexico.

Answer: Oil spills causing marine pollution and habitat destruction.

Question 1: In the case of the Colorado River, analyze the main challenges faced in water allocation among different states and sectors.

Answer: Challenges include over-allocation of water rights, prolonged drought conditions, competing demands from urban, agricultural, and ecological needs, and the impact of climate change reducing flow levels.

Question 2: Evaluate the effectiveness of recent water conservation measures implemented in California to address water scarcity.

Answer: The measures such as restrictions on water use, promotion of efficient appliances, and urban water recycling have had mixed success; they have reduced consumption but are challenged by climate variability and population growth, requiring ongoing policy adjustments.

Question 3: Discuss the social and environmental implications of hydraulic fracturing (fracking) in the US.

Answer: Social implications include economic growth and job creation, but also health concerns and community disputes. Environmental impacts involve groundwater contamination, seismic activity, and methane emissions, raising debates on sustainable energy development.

Question 4: Using the case of renewable energy deployment in Texas, assess how resource management strategies can balance economic development and environmental sustainability.

Answer: Strategies include investing in grid infrastructure, promoting renewable energy incentives, and implementing policies to minimize environmental impacts. Balancing economic growth with sustainability requires careful planning to avoid over-reliance on intermittent sources and ensuring equitable resource distribution.

Question 1: Analyse the main causes of water scarcity in the southwestern US, focusing on climate, population growth, and policy factors.

Answer: Causes include prolonged droughts linked to climate change, rapid population growth increasing demand, and inadequate water management policies that fail to adapt to changing conditions.

Question 2: Explain why the US has become a major producer of shale gas and the implications for resource management.

Answer: Advances in hydraulic fracturing technology have unlocked vast shale gas reserves, making the US a leading producer, which raises issues of environmental impact, water use, and regulatory challenges.

Question 3: Discuss the regional disparities in resource management challenges across the US, citing specific examples.

Answer: Regions like California face severe water scarcity, while Texas deals with energy resource management. The Midwest has abundant agricultural land requiring sustainable water and soil practices, highlighting regional differences.

Question 1: To what extent have renewable energy initiatives in the US contributed to sustainable resource management?

Answer: Renewable energy initiatives have positively contributed by reducing reliance on fossil fuels, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting sustainable development. However, challenges such as intermittency, high costs, and land use conflicts limit their full potential. Overall, they represent a significant step toward sustainable resource management, but require integrated policies and technological advancements to maximize benefits.

Question 2: Evaluate the effectiveness of policies aimed at balancing economic growth with environmental conservation in US resource management.

Answer: US policies such as environmental regulations, conservation programs, and incentives for renewable energy have made progress in balancing economic and environmental goals. Nonetheless, conflicts persist, especially with industries like oil and gas. While some policies have successfully reduced environmental impacts, ongoing debates and political challenges indicate that achieving an optimal balance remains complex and requires adaptive, multi-faceted approaches.