Photo AI
Conflict of Interest Examine how conflict can arise between economic interests and environmental interests regarding the exploitation of resources, with reference to two examples that you have studied. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question C - 2014
Question C
Conflict of Interest Examine how conflict can arise between economic interests and environmental interests regarding the exploitation of resources, with reference t... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Conflict of Interest Examine how conflict can arise between economic interests and environmental interests regarding the exploitation of resources, with reference to two examples that you have studied. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question C - 2014
Step 1
Example 1: Deforestation for Timber Production
Answer
One prominent example of conflict arises in the context of deforestation for timber production. Economic interests promote the logging industry, which generates substantial revenue and employment opportunities. However, this exploitation often leads to significant environmental degradation. Deforestation results in habitat destruction, loss of biodiversity, and contributes to climate change through increased carbon emissions.
Local communities may depend on these forests for their livelihoods and cultural identity, creating a conflict where immediate economic gain clashes with long-term environmental sustainability.
Step 2
Example 2: Oil Extraction in Sensitive Ecosystems
Answer
A second example is the extraction of oil in environmentally sensitive areas, such as the Amazon rainforest or Arctic regions. Economic interests in fossil fuels can drive exploration and extraction efforts, promising large profits and energy security. However, these activities can lead to severe ecological damage, including pollution, oil spills, and disruption of local wildlife.
In many instances, indigenous populations are affected, causing conflicts between their rights to ancestral lands and the economic benefits sought by corporations and governments.