Question 1: Define 'sustainable development' and give an example of how it relates to resource management.

Answer: Sustainable development is meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs; for example, using renewable energy sources instead of fossil fuels.

Question 2: What is 'resource depletion'?

Answer: Resource depletion is the reduction of a resource's availability due to overuse or extraction faster than it can be renewed or replenished.

Question 3: Name three renewable resources.

Answer: Solar energy, wind energy, biomass

Question 4: Explain the term 'ecological footprint'.

Answer: Ecological footprint measures the amount of natural resources and environmental services required to support a person, community, or activity.

Question 5: What is 'fossil fuel consumption' and why is it significant?

Answer: Fossil fuel consumption refers to the use of coal, oil, and natural gas for energy; it is significant because it contributes to environmental issues like climate change and resource depletion.

Question 1: Which country is the largest consumer of coal globally?

Answer: China

Question 2: Name two non-renewable resources that are heavily exploited worldwide.

Answer: Oil and coal

Question 3: What is the main reason for increasing water scarcity in regions like the Middle East?

Answer: Over-extraction of groundwater, climate change, and population growth

Question 4: Describe how technological advances have impacted global resource consumption.

Answer: Technological advances have increased efficiency in resource extraction, enabled exploitation of previously inaccessible resources, and facilitated the development of renewable energy sources, all affecting consumption patterns.

Question 1: Based on the case of deforestation in the Amazon rainforest, identify two environmental impacts of high resource extraction activity.

Answer: Loss of biodiversity and increased greenhouse gas emissions

Question 2: Explain how economic development in Brazil has influenced resource consumption and environmental change in the Amazon.

Answer: Economic development has led to increased logging, agriculture, and mining, which drive resource extraction but cause environmental degradation and deforestation.

Question 3: Identify two strategies Brazil has implemented to manage resource use sustainably in the Amazon.

Answer: Establishment of protected areas and promoting sustainable logging practices.

Question 1: Explain why global demand for rare earth metals is increasing and discuss its environmental implications.

Answer: Global demand for rare earth metals is rising due to their use in electronic devices and renewable energy technologies. Their extraction is environmentally damaging, often involving toxic chemicals and habitat destruction.

Question 2: Analyse the causes of water stress in the Indus Basin in Pakistan.

Answer: Causes include over-extraction of groundwater, climate variability reducing river flows, increasing agricultural demand, and upstream water diversion projects.

Question 3: Explain the role of technological innovation in reducing resource depletion in industrial countries.

Answer: Technological innovation helps reduce resource depletion by improving efficiency, developing renewable alternatives, and enabling recycling and cleaner production methods.

Question 1: To what extent are renewable energy sources capable of replacing fossil fuels in meeting global energy demands? Consider economic, environmental, and social factors in your answer.

Answer: Renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydro have the potential to significantly reduce dependence on fossil fuels by providing cleaner energy. Economically, costs are decreasing, and technological advancements improve efficiency. Environmentally, renewables reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but challenges include high initial costs, intermittency issues, and the need for suitable infrastructure. Socially, renewables can create jobs and promote sustainable development, but there are concerns about land use and resource conflicts. Overall, while renewables are promising, a complete transition depends on overcoming these challenges and integrating energy systems effectively.