Photo AI
'Increasing demand for energy and/or mineral ores is inevitably leading to an increase in the importance of geopolitics.' To what extent do you agree with this statement? - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 5 - 2019 - Paper 2
Question 5
'Increasing demand for energy and/or mineral ores is inevitably leading to an increase in the importance of geopolitics.' To what extent do you agree with this state... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:'Increasing demand for energy and/or mineral ores is inevitably leading to an increase in the importance of geopolitics.' To what extent do you agree with this statement? - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 5 - 2019 - Paper 2
Step 1
Introduction and Thesis Statement
Answer
The increasing demand for energy and mineral resources indeed heightens the importance of geopolitics. Factors like global power dynamics, resource ownership, and international relations play significant roles in this context. This essay will evaluate the extent to which this is true.
Step 2
Global Factors Influencing Demand
Answer
Global population growth, technological advancements, and urbanization are major contributors to the increasing demand for energy and mineral resources. The need for sustainable energy solutions and alternative resources is reshaping geopolitical strategies as nations seek to secure their resource needs.
Step 3
Geopolitical Implications of Resource Scarcity
Answer
The scarcity of resources often leads to conflicts between nations. For instance, the control over oil supplies has historically been a significant point of geopolitical tension, as illustrated by the OPEC example. Nations with abundant resources wield considerable influence over those without, highlighting the strategic value of geopolitics.
Step 4
Role of Geopolitics in Resource Management
Answer
Governments and organizations manipulate geopolitical relationships to manage resources effectively. For example, international agreements like the Montreux Convention affect the accessibility of maritime resources, illustrating the interdependency between geopolitics and resource management.
Step 5
Future Considerations and Technological Impact
Answer
Emerging technologies and renewable resources may alter the current geopolitical landscape. Innovations in energy efficiency and alternative sources can reduce dependency on specific regions, potentially diminishing the role of geopolitics in resource allocation.
Step 6
Conclusion
Answer
While increasing demand for energy and mineral resources undeniably elevates the importance of geopolitics, future technological advancements may create a more dynamic and less geopolitically constrained environment. Therefore, the relationship is complex and evolves with changing global circumstances.