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‘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
Question 5
‘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 ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:‘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
Step 1
With reference to a major ore extraction scheme
Answer
A prominent example of a major ore extraction scheme is the Carajas iron ore mine in Brazil. This extraction process has significant environmental impacts including deforestation, habitat destruction, and degradation of local ecosystems. The removal of vast areas of vegetation contributes to soil erosion and loss of biodiversity, which can have long-term ecological consequences.
The mining process itself often entails the use of heavy machinery that emits pollutants, affecting local air quality. Additionally, the process generates large volumes of waste, which can contaminate nearby water sources. This reflects the considerable environmental burdens associated with ore extraction activities.
Step 2
With reference to a major water supply scheme
Answer
An example of a major water supply scheme is the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP). This scheme aims to provide water to South Africa while also generating hydroelectric power. Although it is designed for sustainability, the environmental impacts cannot be overlooked.
Construction of dams and the diversion of rivers can lead to habitat alterations and affect local communities. The project also caused the displacement of people and changes in land use patterns, similar to the ore extraction schemes. However, water supply schemes often include measures to mitigate these impacts, such as environmental assessments and community consultations.
Step 3
Assess the extent to which you agree with this statement
Answer
While both ore extraction and water supply schemes have significant environmental impacts, I partially agree with the statement that ore extraction typically has greater negative effects on the environment. The scale of destruction associated with mining operations, particularly in sensitive ecosystems like the Amazon, is generally more intensive than that of many water supply schemes.
Nevertheless, water supply projects can cause substantial localized impacts, particularly in terms of community displacement and ecological changes. Therefore, the assessment must consider specific contexts and the management strategies employed to mitigate these impacts. Future sustainability and improved practices are also critical in evaluating these two types of projects.