Global Perspectives: Population, Resources, and Environmental Change

M12/3/GEOGR/BP1/ENG/TZ0/XX

Greenhouse Gases and Earth's Temperature

Explain the relationship between atmospheric greenhouse gases and the temperature of the Earth’s surface.

Greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide, water vapor, methane, nitrous oxide, and tropospheric ozone, play a crucial role in regulating Earth's surface temperature. These gases trap outgoing terrestrial (long-wave) radiation, while allowing incoming solar (short-wave) radiation to pass through. This process, known as the greenhouse effect, warms the Earth's surface.

Ecological Footprint Analysis

a) Definition of Ecological Footprint

An ecological footprint measures the amount of land and water required by a population to produce the resources it consumes and absorb its waste, given current technology.

b) Changes in This Country's Ecological Footprint

This country's ecological footprint has generally increased, with a notable fluctuation in the 1980s and an accelerated growth rate after 2005. Specific data or visualizations would further illustrate these changes.

c) Reasons for the 1980s Decrease

Several factors may have contributed to the decrease in the ecological footprint during the 1980s, including economic recession, natural hazards, increased recycling and resource substitution, and rising fuel costs.

d) The Anti-Malthusian Perspective

The anti-Malthusian view posits that resources will keep pace with population growth, and that carrying capacity will increase alongside human population. This perspective emphasizes the role of technology in increasing yields, resource substitution in overcoming resource depletion, and recycling in conserving existing resources.

Migration and Disparities in Wealth and Development

Discuss the statement: “Migration reduces disparities in wealth and development.”

Migration's impact on disparities in wealth and development is complex and multifaceted. While migration can offer potential benefits and drawbacks for both origin and destination regions, its overall effect on disparities is not universally positive or negative.

Potential Impacts on Origin Regions:

• Increasing Disparities: Brain drain, where skilled individuals emigrate, can exacerbate existing inequalities. The remaining population may experience a disproportionate loss of specific age groups, education levels, or genders.
• Reducing Disparities: Remittances sent home by migrants can boost local economies and improve living standards. The return of skilled migrants can also contribute to development.

Potential Impacts on Destination Regions:

• Increasing Disparities: Migrants may face challenges such as residential segregation (e.g., living in slum areas), income disparities, limited job opportunities, and unequal access to education.
• Reducing Disparities: Migrants often fill labor shortages and contribute to economic growth. Their increased income compared to their origin can also improve demographic indicators.

It's important to note that disparities can also arise within both origin and destination regions, between migrants/returnees and the existing population. A thorough analysis requires specific examples and a nuanced understanding of the various factors at play.

Ultimately, the relationship between migration and disparities is not a simple one. While migration can contribute to both increasing and decreasing disparities, its overall impact depends on specific contexts and policy interventions.