Smallholders face several financial challenges that hinder their success. These include: Low income: Smallholders struggle with insufficient income due to limited land size and resources. Their income may not cover production costs or ensure a sustainable livelihood. High cost of ...
The main or major water resources are: 1. Surface Water: a. Rivers and Streams:They flow precipitation and melting ice water to the oceans. b.Lakes:Both natural and artificial lakes facilitate storage of water for later supplies to human beings, agriculture, and industries for various uses. c. ReserRead more
The main or major water resources are:
1. Surface Water:
a. Rivers and Streams:They flow precipitation and melting ice water to the oceans.
b.Lakes:Both natural and artificial lakes facilitate storage of water for later supplies to human beings, agriculture, and industries for various uses.
c. Reservoirs:They are artificial in nature, formed by constructing dams across rivers, which are mainly used for storing water, flood control, and hydroelectric power supplies.
2. Groundwater:
a. Aquifers:Porous rock or sediment that stores the water under the Earth’s surface.
b. Wells and Springs:Gain access to groundwater for drinking, irrigation, and industry, especially in arid regions.
3.Atmospheric Water:
a. Water Vapor, Clouds, and Precipitation: Source of all precipitation that recharges surface and groundwater supplies.
b. Hydrological Cycle: Evaporation, condensation, and precipitation distribute fresh water throughout the globe.
These sources are interconnected through the hydrological cycle. Keeping the management of these resources make them available for future generation.
Model Answer Introduction Coal mining has been a cornerstone of global energy production for centuries. However, it comes with significant environmental drawbacks. This essay explores the duality of coal mining's role in development and its associated impacts. Inevitability of Coal Mining Energy SecRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Coal mining has been a cornerstone of global energy production for centuries. However, it comes with significant environmental drawbacks. This essay explores the duality of coal mining’s role in development and its associated impacts.
Inevitability of Coal Mining
Energy Security and Needs
Coal is the most abundant fossil fuel, providing a reliable and affordable energy source. It is essential for economic growth and development, particularly in emerging economies where energy demand is skyrocketing. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), coal accounted for about 37% of global electricity generation in 2020, highlighting its critical role in energy security (IEA, 2021).
Job Creation
The coal industry employs millions globally, creating jobs not only in mining but also in transportation and ancillary services. In India alone, the coal sector provides direct employment to over 1 million people, supporting local economies (Ministry of Coal, India).
Infrastructure Development
Coal mining necessitates the development of transportation infrastructure, such as railways and roads, which can enhance regional development. Improved infrastructure facilitates economic growth and connectivity, benefiting various sectors.
Revenue Generation
Coal mining generates substantial revenue for governments through taxes and royalties. This income can fund social welfare programs, education, and healthcare, contributing to overall societal development (World Bank, 2019).
Issues Persistent with Coal Mining
Environmental Impacts
The environmental repercussions of coal mining are profound. It contributes to air and water pollution, soil degradation, and significant greenhouse gas emissions. These issues can lead to health problems and loss of biodiversity (EPA, 2020).
Health Hazards
Coal mining poses severe health risks, including respiratory diseases for miners and communities near coal-fired power plants. The exposure to coal dust can lead to black lung disease, severely affecting miners’ quality of life.
Resource Depletion and Climate Change
As a non-renewable resource, coal is finite. Its continued use contributes to climate change, making it an unsustainable energy option. Transitioning to renewable energy sources is essential for long-term sustainability.
Conclusion
While coal mining remains critical for development, its environmental and health impacts are significant. To achieve sustainable development, there must be an investment in cleaner coal technologies and a transition to renewable energy sources. Balancing the benefits of coal with its costs is crucial for future generations.
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