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Using Figure 10a, Figure 10b and your own knowledge, how do you agree that geopolotics are important in ensuring energy security in Europe? Figure 10a shows selected gas pipelines and liquefied natural gas terminals in Europe in 2014 - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 5 - 2020 - Paper 2
Question 5
Using Figure 10a, Figure 10b and your own knowledge, how do you agree that geopolotics are important in ensuring energy security in Europe? Figure 10a shows selecte... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Using Figure 10a, Figure 10b and your own knowledge, how do you agree that geopolotics are important in ensuring energy security in Europe? Figure 10a shows selected gas pipelines and liquefied natural gas terminals in Europe in 2014 - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 5 - 2020 - Paper 2
Step 1
Understanding the Geopolitics of Energy
Answer
To address the importance of geopolitics in energy security, we must first analyze how resources such as gas are interconnected with international relations. Geopolitics refers to the study of how geographical space influences politics, particularly in the context of resource distribution. In Europe, natural gas dependency, particularly on Russia, highlights these geopolitical nuances.
Step 2
Analysis of Figure 10a
Answer
Figure 10a demonstrates the network of gas pipelines and LNG terminals. Countries such as Germany and Poland rely heavily on Russian gas. The infrastructure shown indicates that any geopolitical tension can disrupt not only supply but also energy availability across Europe.
Step 3
Analysis of Figure 10b
Answer
From Figure 10b, it is evident that many European countries, including the UK and Germany, consume a large percentage of gas from Russia. This creates an energy security dilemma, as nations must navigate their reliance on a single source while also managing political relations with Russia.
Step 4
Case Studies and Examples
Answer
The past incidents, such as the 2009 gas dispute between Russia and Ukraine, illustrate how geopolitical factors can lead to energy crises in Europe. Moreover, the 2014 Crimean crisis also had ramifications on European energy security, as sanctions against Russia meant reconsidering energy sources.
Step 5
Conclusion
Answer
Ultimately, geopolitics plays a crucial role in ensuring energy security in Europe. The interplay between geopolitics and energy shows that better diversification of sources and alternative routes could mitigate risks associated with dependency on a single supplier like Russia. Therefore, geopolitics cannot be overlooked in discussions of energy strategy.