Question 1: What is 'sustainable development'?

Answer: Development that meets present needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet their own needs.

Question 2: Define 'renewable resource' and give an example specific to the US.

Answer: A resource that can be replenished naturally over time, e.g., solar energy.

Question 3: What does 'carbon footprint' mean?

Answer: The total greenhouse gas emissions caused directly or indirectly by an individual, organization, event, or product.

Question 4: Explain 'urban sustainability' with an example from US cities.

Answer: Urban sustainability involves creating cities that are environmentally friendly, economically viable, and socially inclusive. For example, Portland, Oregon, promotes green building standards and extensive public transportation.

Question 5: What is 'water scarcity', and which US state faces significant challenges with it?

Answer: Water scarcity is the lack of sufficient available water resources to meet demand. California faces significant water scarcity issues.

Question 1: Which US state is most associated with water management challenges due to frequent droughts?

Answer: California

Question 2: Name one renewable energy source widely used in the US to promote sustainability.

Answer: Solar energy

Question 3: Identify two environmental impacts of urban sprawl in US cities.

Answer: Loss of green spaces and increased air pollution.

Question 4: What is the primary goal of sustainable agriculture in the US?

Answer: To produce food efficiently while conserving resources and maintaining ecological balance.

Question 5: Name a US city known for implementing extensive green infrastructure to enhance urban sustainability.

Answer: Portland, Oregon

Question 1: Based on the case study of California, describe two major impacts of water scarcity on local communities and agriculture.

Answer: Impacts include reduced crop yields affecting farmers' livelihoods and increased costs for water supply, leading to social conflicts and unemployment.

Question 2: Analyze how California's policies on water conservation have aimed to promote sustainability. Provide specific measures.

Answer: Measures include mandatory water restrictions, promotion of water-saving appliances, and investments in recycled water projects.

Question 3: Evaluate the effectiveness of California’s water management strategies in balancing urban and agricultural needs.

Answer: Strategies have had mixed success; while restrictions reduce waste, conflicts persist between urban and agricultural sectors. Long-term solutions like sustainable groundwater management are needed for better balance.

Question 4: Discuss social and environmental challenges faced by California in achieving water sustainability.

Answer: Challenges include over-extraction of groundwater leading to land subsidence, unequal water distribution causing social inequality, and ecological impacts on rivers and wetlands.

Question 1: Explain why urban sprawl in US cities contributes to environmental degradation.

Answer: Urban sprawl leads to loss of natural habitats, increased vehicle emissions due to longer travel distances, and greater demand for infrastructure and resources, all of which degrade the environment.

Question 2: Analyse the causes of high energy consumption in US households.

Answer: Causes include the widespread use of energy-intensive appliances, reliance on fossil fuels, urban lifestyles, and lack of energy-efficient building designs.

Question 3: Explain how climate change exacerbates water scarcity issues in California.

Answer: Climate change leads to reduced snowfall in the Sierra Nevada, decreased snowmelt, and increased drought frequency, intensifying water shortages.

Question 4: Identify the geographical pattern of renewable energy deployment in the US and explain its significance.

Answer: Renewable energy projects are concentrated in states like California, Texas, and Colorado, reflecting resource availability and policy support, which enhances regional sustainability.

Question 1: To what extent are current US policies effective in promoting long-term sustainability? Consider environmental, social, and economic factors.

Answer: US policies have made progress through renewable energy incentives, conservation programs, and green infrastructure initiatives. However, challenges remain such as political resistance, unequal resource distribution, and ongoing fossil fuel dependence. While policies are a step forward, comprehensive and inclusive approaches are required for lasting sustainability.