Roadmap for Answer Writing
1. Introduction:
- Define the global resource crisis, linking it to increasing population, industrialization, and urbanization.
- Highlight oceans as underexplored resource reserves, covering two-thirds of the Earth’s surface.
2. Renewable Ocean Resources:
a. Tidal Energy
- Explain how tidal energy can be a sustainable and predictable energy source.
- Fact: Tidal energy has the potential to provide up to 11% of the world’s energy needs (source: International Renewable Energy Agency, 2023).
b. Wave Energy
- Describe the untapped potential of wave energy, especially for coastal regions.
- Fact: Global wave energy potential is estimated to be around 29,500 TWh/year, almost twice the current global electricity demand (source: World Energy Council, 2024).
c. Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC)
- Discuss the concept of OTEC, using temperature differences between deep and surface waters to generate energy.
- Fact: OTEC could provide continuous electricity, with potential energy extraction of up to 88,000 TWh/year globally (source: United Nations Development Programme, 2024).
3. Mineral Resources:
a. Polymetallic Nodules
- Mention the extraction of polymetallic nodules rich in manganese, nickel, copper, and cobalt from ocean beds.
- Fact: The Clarion-Clipperton Zone (Pacific Ocean) alone holds 21 billion tonnes of polymetallic nodules (source: International Seabed Authority, 2024).
b. Methane Hydrates
- Introduce methane hydrates as a potential future fuel source.
- Fact: Oceanic methane hydrate reserves are estimated to contain more than 10,000 gigatonnes of carbon, far exceeding global fossil fuel reserves (source: US Geological Survey, 2023).
4. Fisheries and Aquaculture:
- Evaluate the potential of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture for food security.
- Fact: Oceans provide around 17% of the world’s animal protein, with projections to meet 40% of global fish consumption by 2030 (source: FAO, 2024).
5. Desalination:
- Briefly mention desalination as a solution to freshwater shortages.
- Fact: Ocean desalination accounts for 1% of the world’s drinking water, but with further technological advancements, it can scale up (source: UN Water, 2024).
6. Critical Evaluation:
- Weigh the potential of these resources against environmental and logistical challenges (e.g., marine biodiversity loss, high costs of extraction, and technological constraints).
- Highlight the need for international cooperation, sustainable practices, and regulatory frameworks to prevent overexploitation.
7. Conclusion
- Summarize the importance of oceans as a diverse resource hub that can help alleviate the resource crisis.
- Emphasize the need for sustainable harnessing of ocean resources.
Evaluation of Ocean Resources to Address Global Resource Crisis
1. Mineral Resources
Oceans hold substantial mineral resources, including polymetallic nodules, hydrothermal vent minerals, and rare earth elements. Recent advances in deep-sea mining technology have enabled the extraction of these resources, which are crucial for technology and renewable energy sectors. For instance, the International Seabed Authority (ISA) has been issuing licenses for deep-sea mining in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, which is rich in cobalt and nickel. However, environmental concerns about seabed destruction and biodiversity loss pose significant challenges.
**2. Energy Resources
Oceans offer various energy resources, such as oil and natural gas, as well as renewable energy sources like tidal, wave, and ocean thermal energy. The successful deployment of floating wind farms off the coast of Scotland and the development of tidal energy projects in France and South Korea highlight the potential for harnessing these resources. Nevertheless, the high cost of technology and environmental impacts are major obstacles.
3. Biological Resources
Marine biodiversity provides food and medicinal resources. Recent research into marine organisms has led to the discovery of compounds with potential pharmaceutical applications, such as anti-cancer drugs derived from deep-sea corals. Yet, overfishing and habitat destruction threaten these resources, necessitating sustainable management practices.
4. Desalinated Water
Desalination technology converts seawater into fresh water, addressing water scarcity issues. The recent growth in desalination plants, such as those in Israel and Saudi Arabia, demonstrates its effectiveness. However, high energy consumption and environmental impact of brine disposal are concerns.
In summary, while ocean resources offer promising solutions to the global resource crisis, balancing exploitation with conservation is crucial to ensure long-term sustainability.
Model Answer
Introduction
The vast oceans are rich in resources essential for addressing the global resource crisis. From minerals to renewable energy, these resources hold potential for sustainable development. Countries like India are actively exploring oceanic resources through initiatives like the Deep Ocean Mission, emphasizing sustainable practices.
Harnessing Ocean Resources
1. Polymetallic Nodules
Polymetallic nodules, rich in manganese, cobalt, copper, and nickel, are crucial for manufacturing renewable energy technologies. The Clarion-Clipperton Zone, located between Hawaii and Mexico, is believed to hold significant deposits that could potentially double the supply of these metals by 2040.
2. Renewable Ocean Energy
Ocean energy, including tidal, wave, and thermal energy, offers sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels. For instance, India’s Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) projects aim to harness thermal gradients in oceans for power generation.
3. Biological Resources
Marine biodiversity provides food, pharmaceuticals, and industrial products. India’s Blue Revolution promotes sustainable aquaculture, enhancing fish production and food security.
4. Hydrocarbon Deposits
Offshore oil and gas reserves are critical for global energy security. The Krishna-Godavari Basin in India plays a significant role in meeting the country’s energy needs.
5. Marine Genetic Resources
Unique genetic materials from marine organisms are valuable for biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in India focuses on bioprospecting for bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential.
Limitations of Ocean Resource Exploitation
1. Environmental Impact
Exploitation can disrupt marine ecosystems, leading to biodiversity loss. Deep-sea mining poses risks to fragile environments, highlighting the need for stringent environmental assessments.
2. Technological Challenges
The complexities of deep-sea exploration make resource extraction costly and technically challenging, as mining companies face significant hurdles at extreme depths.
3. Economic Viability
High extraction costs and uncertain returns can deter investment. Studies indicate that the economic benefits of deep-sea mining may not justify the risks involved.
4. Regulatory Issues
The lack of comprehensive international regulations complicates sustainable management. Disagreements among countries hinder effective governance, as seen in negotiations under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
5. Social and Ethical Concerns
Exploitation raises ethical issues regarding the rights of indigenous communities. Resistance from Pacific nations reflects concerns over local impacts and benefits.
Conclusion
Harnessing ocean resources presents both opportunities and challenges. By strengthening regulations, advancing technology, fostering international cooperation, and promoting ethical practices, we can sustainably utilize oceanic wealth. Future policies must prioritize environmental preservation and community well-being to ensure oceans remain vital for global prosperity.