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Study Diagram Q1A, Diagram Q1B, Diagram Q1C, Diagram Q1D, and Diagram Q1E - Scottish Highers Geography - Question 1 - 2019
Question 1
Study Diagram Q1A, Diagram Q1B, Diagram Q1C, Diagram Q1D, and Diagram Q1E. Explain why there is a need for water management in the Blue Nile Basin, Ethiopia. Discu... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Study Diagram Q1A, Diagram Q1B, Diagram Q1C, Diagram Q1D, and Diagram Q1E - Scottish Highers Geography - Question 1 - 2019
Step 1
Explain why there is a need for water management in the Blue Nile Basin, Ethiopia.
Answer
Water management in the Blue Nile Basin is crucial due to several factors:
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Population Growth: Ethiopia's population is projected to increase significantly, leading to heightened demand for water resources. Specifically, the increase from 140 million in 2000 to an estimated 200 million by 2030 requires efficient management to satisfy domestic, agricultural, and industrial needs.
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Agricultural Demands: The need for irrigation is imperative to ensure sufficient crop production. With the majority of the population engaged in agriculture, effective water management would enhance crop yields and reduce dependency on weather patterns.
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Seasonal Variability: The average monthly flow of the Blue Nile shows considerable seasonal fluctuations, with a peak in flow from June to August. This variability necessitates the storage of water during high-flow months to ensure availability during dry months (November - March).
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Climate Change Adaptation: Enhanced water management strategies are essential to deal with the anticipated impacts of climate change, including altered precipitation patterns and increasing temperatures that may affect water supply and agricultural productivity.
Step 2
Discuss the negative socio-economic and environmental consequences of a manned river management project that you have studied.
Answer
Manned river management projects such as the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) can lead to several negative consequences:
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Displacement of Communities: The construction of large dams often displaces local communities, leading to loss of homes and livelihoods. Communities dependent on the river for fishing, farming, and daily activities may be severely affected.
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Reduced Water Availability: Downstream countries may experience reduced water flow, affecting their agriculture and water supply. Nations such as Sudan and Egypt may face challenges to their water security, potentially leading to geopolitical tensions.
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Impact on Ecosystems: Altering river flow can disrupt local ecosystems. Species dependent on specific water conditions may face extinction, and changes in sediment flow can adversely affect water quality and aquatic life.
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Economic Implications: Although dams can provide electricity, the costs associated with construction, maintenance, and social disruption can outweigh benefits. Additionally, if neighboring populations are deprived of water, this could lead to economic challenges and conflict over resources.
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Long-term Viability: Dependence on a managed river system carries risks. In times of drought or operational failures, communities may face severe shortages, leading to long-term socio-economic instability and increased vulnerability to climate impacts.