'The environmental impacts of ore extraction will always be greater than that of water supply schemes.' With reference to a major ore extraction scheme and a major water supply scheme, assess the extent to which you agree with this statement. - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 5 - 2020 - Paper 2

Choose a significant ore extraction scheme, such as the Carajas iron ore mine in Brazil. Outline its environmental impacts, including deforestation, increased carbon emissions, and the disruption of local ecosystems. Mention the scale of these impacts, such as the percentage of land deforested and species threatened.

Select a notable water supply scheme, such as the Lesotho Highlands Water Project. Assess its environmental impacts, including potential alterations to local habitats, water pollution, and effects on ecosystems dependent on natural water sources. Provide data on the scale of these impacts, such as changes in local biodiversity.

Compare the environmental impacts of both schemes, focusing on aspects such as scale, severity, and long-term consequences. Discuss whether the immediate impacts of ore extraction are indeed more significant than the potential long-term ecological shifts caused by water supply schemes.

Summarize your assessment, stating whether you agree or disagree with the statement. Highlight that both schemes have significant environmental implications, but their impacts may differ in nature and scale. Emphasize the need for sustainable practices in both sectors.