Photo AI
'Challenges presented by the physical environment affecting the availability and cost of a resource, will be overcome by future technological and economic developments.' With reference to a specific place, to what extent do you agree with this statement? - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 2
Question 5
'Challenges presented by the physical environment affecting the availability and cost of a resource, will be overcome by future technological and economic developmen... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:'Challenges presented by the physical environment affecting the availability and cost of a resource, will be overcome by future technological and economic developments.' With reference to a specific place, to what extent do you agree with this statement? - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 2
Step 1
Evaluation of the Statement
Answer
When assessing the statement, it is essential to recognize that physical environmental challenges often present significant barriers to the availability and cost of resources. These challenges can include geographical limitations, climate variability, and environmental degradation. However, advancements in technology and economic development can indeed mitigate some of these issues, leading to improved resource management and accessibility. For instance, innovations in renewable energy technology can address issues related to energy scarcity caused by environmental factors.
Step 2
Use of a Specific Place: Example from Alaska
Answer
Taking Alaska as a specific example, the physical environment presents challenges such as extreme weather, remote locations, and limited infrastructure. For instance, high rainfall levels impact water supply systems, making it difficult to ensure access to potable water. However, technological developments, such as advanced water purification and storage systems, can address these issues. Furthermore, financial investments in technology can enhance the resilience of communities against environmental variability.
Step 3
Future Technologies and Economic Developments
Answer
Future technological advancements, including the development of smart grid systems and resource management software, may offer solutions that help overcome resource availability challenges. Economic development, including investment in renewable energy sources like hydropower and wind energy, can also reduce dependency on costly fossil fuels that may be affected by environmental changes. The growing use of big data and remote sensing can optimize resource allocation, making it possible to overcome traditional environmental constraints.
Step 4
Conclusion
Answer
In conclusion, while challenges presented by the physical environment are significant, future technological and economic developments hold considerable promise for overcoming these barriers. The extent to which these developments can effectively mitigate the impact of environmental challenges may vary by region, but overall, a proactive approach combining technology and economics is essential for improving resource availability and managing costs effectively.