Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The concept of a ‘global resource dilemma’ refers to the situation where multiple actors, pursuing their own self-interest, deplete a shared resource, even when it is clear that doing so is collectively irrational and unsustainable. This dilemma is increasingly pertinent in the 21st century, driven by a confluence of factors including a burgeoning global population, escalating consumption levels, the impacts of climate change, and geopolitical tensions. The Earth’s finite resources are under unprecedented strain, leading to scarcity, conflict, and environmental degradation, making the situation a pressing global concern.
Understanding the Global Resource Dilemma
The core of the dilemma lies in the tragedy of the commons – a situation where individuals acting independently and rationally according to their self-interest behave contrary to the best interests of the whole by depleting a shared resource. This is exacerbated by several factors:
- Population Growth: The UN projects the world population to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, increasing demand for all resources.
- Unsustainable Consumption Patterns: Developed nations, and increasingly developing ones, exhibit consumption patterns exceeding the Earth’s carrying capacity.
- Climate Change: Exacerbates resource scarcity through droughts, floods, and extreme weather events, impacting agricultural yields and water availability.
- Geopolitical Factors: Resource control and competition often fuel conflicts and instability, hindering sustainable management.
Pressures on Key Resources
Water Resources
Water scarcity affects over 2 billion people globally (UN Water, 2023 - knowledge cutoff). Over-extraction of groundwater, pollution, and climate change-induced droughts are major drivers. The Indus Water Treaty (1960) exemplifies the geopolitical complexities surrounding water resource sharing. Regions like the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) are particularly vulnerable.
Energy Resources
The global demand for energy is rising, primarily met by fossil fuels. This contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. The transition to renewable energy sources is crucial but faces challenges related to intermittency, storage, and infrastructure development. Competition for oil and gas resources has historically been a source of geopolitical tension.
Mineral Resources
The demand for critical minerals (lithium, cobalt, nickel) essential for renewable energy technologies and electric vehicles is surging. Mining these resources often has significant environmental and social impacts, including habitat destruction and human rights concerns. Supply chain vulnerabilities and geopolitical control over these minerals pose risks.
Food Resources
Food security is threatened by climate change, land degradation, water scarcity, and population growth. Unsustainable agricultural practices, such as intensive farming and deforestation, contribute to soil erosion and biodiversity loss. Food waste is a significant issue, with approximately one-third of all food produced globally being lost or wasted (FAO, 2011).
Consequences of the Resource Dilemma
- Environmental Degradation: Deforestation, desertification, pollution, and biodiversity loss.
- Economic Instability: Resource scarcity can lead to price volatility, economic disruption, and reduced growth.
- Social Conflict: Competition for resources can exacerbate existing tensions and trigger new conflicts.
- Humanitarian Crises: Resource scarcity can lead to famine, displacement, and migration.
Addressing the Global Resource Dilemma
Mitigating the resource dilemma requires a multi-faceted approach:
- Sustainable Consumption and Production: Promoting circular economy principles, reducing waste, and adopting more efficient resource use.
- Technological Innovation: Developing and deploying technologies for renewable energy, water conservation, and sustainable agriculture.
- International Cooperation: Strengthening international agreements and institutions to manage shared resources effectively.
- Policy and Regulation: Implementing policies that incentivize sustainable practices and discourage unsustainable ones.
- Equitable Resource Distribution: Addressing inequalities in access to resources and promoting social justice.
The concept of ‘ecological footprint’ highlights the disparity between resource consumption and Earth’s regenerative capacity. Reducing this footprint is paramount.
Conclusion
The world undeniably faces a global resource dilemma, characterized by the unsustainable exploitation of finite resources. Addressing this challenge requires a fundamental shift in mindset, moving away from short-term self-interest towards long-term sustainability and collective responsibility. International cooperation, technological innovation, and policy interventions are crucial, but ultimately, a change in consumption patterns and a commitment to equitable resource distribution are essential for securing a sustainable future for all. The urgency of the situation demands immediate and concerted action.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.