Introduction
Global resource consumption and security are critical topics in the study of geography, particularly within the International Baccalaureate (IB) syllabus. This document will cover the key concepts, factors, and case studies related to resource security, focusing on water, food, and energy resources. We will also delve into the impacts of changing trends in resource consumption, the Water-Food-Energy (WFE) Nexus, and the implications of climate change and waste management on resource security.
1. Resource Security & Choices
1.1 Resource Security
Resource security refers to the ability of societies to ensure the long-term availability of sufficient natural resources to meet demand. Key natural resources include:
- Water
- Food
- Energy
- Raw materials
Importance of Resource Security
- Stable Supply: Ensures a stable supply to meet current and future needs.
- Prevention of Conflicts: Prevents resource conflicts that could arise from scarcity.
- Sustainable Development: Supports sustainable development by balancing resource use and conservation.
1.2 Factors Affecting Resource Choices
Several factors influence the choices societies make regarding resource use:
- Economic: Availability of funds for resource development and infrastructure.
- Technological: Advances in technology that improve resource extraction and efficiency.
- Political: Government policies and international agreements.
- Environmental: Natural availability and geographical distribution of resources.
Tip:
Consider the economic, technological, political, and environmental factors when analyzing resource security in different regions.
2. Case Studies: Resource Security
2.1 Food Security in the United States
The United States is a high-income country with advanced agricultural technology.
Factors Contributing to Food Security:
- Economic: High investment in agricultural research and development.
- Technological: Use of GMOs and advanced irrigation systems.
- Political: Government subsidies and support for farmers.
- Environmental: Diverse climate allows a variety of crops.
Example:
In the US, advanced irrigation systems like center-pivot irrigation help in efficient water use, supporting high crop yields.
2.2 Water Security in Ethiopia
Ethiopia is a low-income country with challenges in water accessibility.
Factors Affecting Water Security:
- Economic: Limited funds for water infrastructure.
- Geographical: Arid regions with irregular rainfall.
- Political: Dependency on upstream countries for water sources.
- Technological: Lack of advanced water purification and distribution systems.
Note:
Water security in Ethiopia is heavily impacted by its reliance on transboundary water sources, such as the Nile River.
2.3 Resource Security in Bangladesh
Bangladesh faces significant challenges in water, food, and energy (WFE) security due to climate change and high population density.
Water Security:
- Rivers: Bangladesh has 238 major rivers, yet 40% of the population lacks access to safe water.
- Sanitation: Almost 70% have no access to improved sanitation.
- Pollution: High levels of river and groundwater pollution, with 50% of the population drinking arsenic-contaminated water.
Food Security:
- Hunger: 25% of the population suffers from food insecurity, with 11 million people experiencing acute hunger.
- Malnutrition: 36% of children under five suffer from stunting.
- Land Loss: Increasing coastal flooding and soil salinization reduce arable land.
Common Mistake:
Assuming that high population density alone causes resource insecurity. It is a combination of factors including economic, technological, and environmental aspects.
3. Impacts of Changing Trends in Resource Consumption
3.1 Climate Change & the Nexus
The Water-Food-Energy (WFE) Nexus
Proposed at the Bonn Nexus Conference in 2011, the WFE nexus refers to the interconnections between the consumption and supply of water, food, and energy resources. Changes in any of these areas impact the security of the others.
- Water Security: Sufficient water of high enough quality to meet the population's needs.
- Food Security: Access to a diet of sufficient quantity and quality.
- Energy Security: An available and affordable energy supply.
Example:
The reduction in the size of the ice stores in the Himalayas affects the water supply in Bangladesh, impacting both agriculture and energy generation.
3.2 Disposal & Recycling of Consumer Waste
Importance of Waste Management
- Environmental Impact: Reduces pollution and conserves natural resources.
- Economic Benefits: Creates jobs and reduces costs associated with waste disposal.
- Resource Efficiency: Promotes the efficient use of resources through recycling and reuse.
Tip:
Implementing a circular economy approach can significantly enhance resource efficiency and sustainability.
4. Balanced Views on Resource Consumption
4.1 Sustainable Development
Stewardship Approach
Stewardship combines conservation and preservation to ensure the efficient use of resources with minimal waste. It aims to:
- Conserve Resources: Ensure less reliance on technological innovations.
- Address Inequality: Share food resources more equally around the world.
- Reduce Waste: Encourage governments and organizations to adopt waste reduction strategies.
4.2 Optimum Population
Careful management of population and resources is needed to achieve a balance, known as the optimum population. An imbalance leads to overpopulation or underpopulation.
Note:
Achieving an optimum population requires a balance between resource availability and population size.
Conclusion
Understanding global resource consumption and security involves analyzing various factors, including economic, technological, political, and environmental aspects. By studying case studies and the impacts of changing trends, we can develop strategies for sustainable resource management and ensure long-term resource security.