Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Define ‘Resource Curse’: Start by explaining the concept of the resource curse, which refers to the paradox where countries rich in natural resources experience slower economic growth and development compared to countries with fewer natural resources. ...
Model Answer Introduction Natural rubber, derived from the polymerization of isoprene, is predominantly produced in tropical regions. Thailand is the largest producer, followed by Indonesia, Vietnam, Brazil, India, and China. These countries benefit from warm and humid climates, ideal for rubber treRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Natural rubber, derived from the polymerization of isoprene, is predominantly produced in tropical regions. Thailand is the largest producer, followed by Indonesia, Vietnam, Brazil, India, and China. These countries benefit from warm and humid climates, ideal for rubber tree cultivation.
Distribution of Rubber Producing Countries
The major rubber-producing countries are located near the equator, where the climatic conditions support rubber tree growth. Thailand leads global production, contributing approximately 30% of the world’s rubber supply (Source: “FAO Statistical Yearbook). Indonesia and Vietnam follow closely, with Brazil, India, and China also playing significant roles in the rubber market.
Major Environmental Issues Faced by Rubber Producing Countries
1. Deforestation
The expansion of rubber plantations has resulted in significant deforestation, particularly in Brazil. This process leads to habitat loss and threatens biodiversity, as native species are displaced or driven to extinction (Source: “Deforestation in the Amazon” – World Wildlife Fund).
2. Soil Degradation
In Venezuela, extensive rubber cultivation has caused soil degradation, leading to reduced fertility and productivity. The heavy use of agrochemicals further exacerbates soil and water pollution (Source: “Soil Degradation and Its Impact” – Food and Agriculture Organization).
3. Water Pollution
In Peru, the rubber industry’s irrigation practices have led to water depletion and pollution from agrochemical runoff, harming aquatic ecosystems (Source: “Water Pollution from Agriculture” – World Resources Institute).
4. Climate Change
Deforestation linked to rubber production contributes to climate change by releasing greenhouse gases. Brazil is particularly affected, as land-use changes and fossil fuel consumption increase carbon emissions (Source: “Climate Change and Deforestation” – Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change).
5. Labor and Human Rights Issues
The rubber industry is often associated with labor exploitation, including child labor and land grabbing from indigenous communities, raising serious ethical concerns regarding its sustainability (Source: “Labor Rights in the Rubber Industry” – Human Rights Watch).
Conclusion
While the rubber industry is a vital economic sector for many tropical countries, it poses significant environmental challenges. Efforts by organizations like WWF aim to promote sustainable practices in rubber production to mitigate these issues and protect ecosystems.
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Model Answer The resource curse, also known as the paradox of plenty, refers to the phenomenon where countries rich in natural resources often experience slower economic growth, weaker development outcomes, and higher poverty levels than countries with fewer natural resources. This paradox occurs duRead more
Model Answer
The resource curse, also known as the paradox of plenty, refers to the phenomenon where countries rich in natural resources often experience slower economic growth, weaker development outcomes, and higher poverty levels than countries with fewer natural resources. This paradox occurs due to various factors, as explained below.
Economic Volatility
Countries dependent on a single resource are vulnerable to fluctuations in global commodity prices. This overreliance can expose the economy to external shocks. For example, Venezuela‘s heavy dependence on oil exports led to severe economic instability, including hyperinflation, food shortages, and a collapsing economy, as global oil prices dropped dramatically.
Neglect of Other Sectors
Overdependence on one resource can lead to a neglect of other sectors, reducing overall economic diversification. Zambia, heavily reliant on copper exports, ranks near the bottom in the Global Economic Diversification Index (EDI) 2023, indicating limited diversification. This lack of variety in the economy makes the country vulnerable to downturns in the global copper market.
Governance and Corruption
In resource-rich nations, governments may misuse resource wealth, leading to corruption and inefficiency. For instance, Sierra Leone, despite being a major diamond producer, suffers from poverty and inequality due to mismanagement and corrupt practices surrounding diamond revenues. This weak governance reduces the potential for resource wealth to improve development outcomes.
Effective Resource Management and Development
However, if resources are managed well, they can drive significant economic growth and development. Norway serves as a prime example, having invested oil revenues into the Government Pension Fund Global, ensuring long-term economic stability and development. Similarly, Botswana has used diamond revenue to invest in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, improving the country’s overall development.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while excessive reliance on a single resource can hinder development, it does not necessarily condemn a country to poor outcomes. Effective governance, strategic economic policies, and investment in human capital are key to overcoming the challenges posed by the resource curse.
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