Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction to Deserts and Resource Potential Begin by defining deserts as arid ecosystems with less than 25 cm of annual precipitation, covering about 20% of Earth’s land area. Mention that deserts, despite their harsh conditions, are rich in ...
Effective land and water resource management involves sustainable practices, efficient allocation, conservation and integrated planning to optimize agricultural productivity, mitigate climate change, reduce environmental degradation and ensure equitable access to clean water.Effective management ofRead more
Effective land and water resource management involves sustainable practices, efficient allocation, conservation and integrated planning to optimize agricultural productivity, mitigate climate change, reduce environmental degradation and ensure equitable access to clean water.Effective management of land and water resources is crucial for reducing human miseries related to –
- Mitigates droughts and floods by enhancing water storage, efficient irrigation and flood control measures, reducing humanitarian crises and economic losses.
- Minimizes soil erosion through conservation tillage, terracing and cover cropping, reducing landslides, desertification and agricultural productivity losses.
- Alleviates water scarcity through efficient irrigation, water harvesting, conservation and watershed protection, ensuring reliable access to clean water.
- Enhances food security through sustainable agriculture, efficient irrigation, crop diversification and water conservation, reducing hunger and malnutrition significantly.
- Fosters poverty alleviation through sustainable livelihoods, enhanced agricultural productivity and income generation, empowering rural communities and promoting economic growth.
- Minimizes displacement and migration by providing sustainable livelihoods, enhancing food security and adapting to climate change, promoting stable communities.
- Reduces water borne diseases through improved sanitation, wastewater treatment and safe drinking water supply, protecting public health and well being.
- Reduces malnutrition through diverse crop production, efficient irrigation, and sustainable agriculture, ensuring access to nutrient rich food and promoting healthy communities.
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Model Answer Deserts, which cover about one-fifth of Earth's land area, possess significant resource potential despite their harsh environments. These resources can be harnessed through appropriate technology and sustainable practices. 1. Mineral Resources Metallic minerals such as copper, lead, zinRead more
Model Answer
Deserts, which cover about one-fifth of Earth’s land area, possess significant resource potential despite their harsh environments. These resources can be harnessed through appropriate technology and sustainable practices.
1. Mineral Resources
For example, the Salar de Atacama in Chile is known for its vast lithium reserves, which are crucial for battery production.
2. Energy Resources
Many desert regions, including the Middle East and Africa, hold substantial petroleum deposits. The Sahara has significant oil shale reserves, while regions like the Arabian Peninsula have mega aquifer systems that provide water for agriculture and human consumption.
Deserts also possess strong potential for renewable energy, particularly solar and wind power, due to their abundant sunlight and consistent winds. Large-scale solar farms are operational in deserts like the Mojave Desert (USA) and Atacama Desert (Chile).
3. Agriculture and Tourism
Despite the arid conditions, xerophytic vegetation and certain crops like date palms, figs, and almonds thrive in desert environments. For example, Israel has successfully transformed the Negev Desert into arable land.
Deserts also attract tourists due to their unique landscapes and cultural heritage, with destinations like the Pyramids of Giza (Egypt) and Jaisalmer’s Desert Safari (India).
Mineral Profile of the Thar Desert
The Thar Desert in India is rich in several important resources:
Despite the immense resource potential, it is essential to manage these resources sustainably to prevent environmental degradation.
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