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Conflict of Interest Examine how conflict may develop between economic interests and environmental interests, with reference to examples that you have studied. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question C. - 2012
Question C.
Conflict of Interest Examine how conflict may develop between economic interests and environmental interests, with reference to examples that you have studied.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Conflict of Interest Examine how conflict may develop between economic interests and environmental interests, with reference to examples that you have studied. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question C. - 2012
Step 1
Conflict between Economic Interests and Environmental Interests
Answer
Conflicts can arise when economic development goals, such as industrial expansion or resource extraction, compromise environmental sustainability. For example, a region eyeing oil drilling may prioritize economic gains over the preservation of local wildlife and ecosystems. This conflict intensifies when local communities depend on these natural resources for their livelihoods.
Step 2
Reference to Example
Answer
Consider the case of the Amazon Rainforest where logging companies aim to exploit timber resources. The economic interests of these companies directly clash with efforts to conserve biodiversity and protect indigenous regions, showing a clear conflict between profit motives and environmental protection.
Step 3
Examination of the Conflict
Answer
The examination of such conflicts reveals many nuances:
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Economic Growth vs. Environmental Sustainability: Proponents argue that economic development is crucial for job creation and improving living standards, often leading to the justification of harmful practices.
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Short-Term Gains vs. Long-Term Consequences: Decisions may be made with short-term financial boosts in mind, often overlooking irreversible environmental damages.
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Stakeholder Perspectives: Different stakeholders (e.g., local communities, government, industrialists) may have varying viewpoints on the priority of economic growth versus environmental health.
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Regulatory Frameworks: Weak regulations may lead to unchecked exploitation of natural resources, exacerbating the conflict.
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Social Responsibility: Discussion of corporate social responsibility initiatives can illustrate attempts to bridge the gap between economic gains and environmental stewardship, albeit with mixed success.
In summary, these examples and discussions illustrate a complex interplay between economic and environmental interests, requiring balanced approaches to foster sustainability.