Resource Conservation (Cambridge (CIE) O Level Geography)

Resource Conservation

• Conservation is the protection and rational use of the environment and natural resources to ensure they are there for future generations

• This involves measures which use resources efficiently to extend their existence for as long as possible 

• Conservation measures include;

  • Recycling and reuse of resources such as clothing or glass and plastics

  • Using energy efficient appliances - these use less energy to power them and less water

  • Stewardship of protected areas - National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)

  • Greater use of, and investment in renewable energies

  • Quotas on resources used - rising quotas to ensure the fish population is not overfished

  • Protection of particular ecosystems - Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and the Antarctica Treaty which includes agreements about the exploitation of Antarctica

  • Reducing deforestation

  • Laws to protect resources and areas

  • Fines for people/organisatiions/companies that damage the environment 

  • Reducing use of or rationing of resources

• There are many non-governmental organisations (NGOs) which aim to conserve and protect the environment and natural resources;

  • World Wildlife Fund

  • Greenpeace

  • Friends of the Earth

  • Woodland Trust

Example Case Study: Pearl River Delta, China

• Located in South-East China, the Pearl River is China's third longest river

• The Pearl River enters the South China Sea to the south-east of Guangzhou

• The area surrounding where the river enters the sea is the Pearl River Delta

• The area is China's largest economic hub, creating over 9% of China's total GDP

• It is the largest urban area or megacity in the world

• Over 60 million people live in the region

Pollution sources

• Air pollution from power plants - there are both gas and coal fired power stations in the region which emit sulphur dioxide, carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides

  • Emissions lead to smog, acid rain and add to enhanced greenhouse effect

• Toxic waste from factories and sewage from large population released into the rivers

Impacts of pollution

• The Pearl River Delta has the highest level of acid rain in China

  • Leads to acidified groundwater

  • Increases heavy metals found in crops and drinking water

    • Linked to increased rates of stomach cancer

• Increase in heavy metals in river water and river sediments including lead, zinc, chromium, copper, arsenic and mercury

  • All harmful to humans and wildlife when in absorbed sufficient quantities

  • Heavy metals pass through the food chain 

  • Rice cultivated in the area has been shown to be contaminated with arsenic and this poses a health risk to the people who consume it

• Pesticides affect wildlife and accumulate in the food chain impacting human health

• Fertilisers lead to eutrophication