Consequences of Spatial Distribution and Consumption of Natural Resources at a Global Scale
A natural resource can be defined as an item that after necessary processing or manufacture is useful and hence meets the needs of the society. Natural resources can be divided into two categories. Renewable and non-renewable. Renewable resources are those which after use will be replenished, if used appropriately. Non-renewable resources are those which come in finite stocks, therefore will eventually run out. Generally, natural resources are spread unevenly over the globe. That is in some areas there may be a concentration of a certain natural resource that may be scarce in another. It is important to note that currently developed countries use the majority of the available resources on an annual basis.
Fresh water is an example of a renewable resource. After use it will be replenished. Less than five percent of the water on earth exists as fresh water and less than one percent is accessible as surface water. The distribution of water varies unevenly around the globe. One such reason for this is the variations in the amount precipitation received in certain areas. Currently water is being consumed in a way that it is turning into a non-renewable resource. The world’s supply of fresh water is threatened by growing levels of pollution, more so in developing countries than developed.
There are many environmental problems associated with the consumption of water in a way that transforms it into a non-renewable resource. Water pollution heavily affects the functionings of an ecosystem as water pollution directly affects both plants and animals.
If current trends of water pollution continue many social consequences will arise. According to a UN Report entitled ‘A Comprehensive Assessment of the Freshwater Resources of the world states that If water pollution continues than two-thirds of the world’s population will suffer ‘moderate to severe water stress’ by 2050. A rise in water pollution can also cause public health problems, specifically water-borne diseases.
Fresh water is an example of a renewable resource. After use it will be replenished. Less than five percent of the water on earth exists as fresh water and less than one percent is accessible as surface water. The distribution of water varies unevenly around the globe. One such reason for this is the variations in the amount precipitation received in certain areas. Currently water is being consumed in a way that it is turning into a non-renewable resource. The world’s supply of fresh water is threatened by growing levels of pollution, more so in developing countries than developed.
There are many environmental problems associated with the consumption of water in a way that transforms it into a non-renewable resource. Water pollution heavily affects the functionings of an ecosystem as water pollution directly affects both plants and animals.
If current trends of water pollution continue many social consequences will arise. According to a UN Report entitled ‘A Comprehensive Assessment of the Freshwater Resources of the world states that If water pollution continues than two-thirds of the world’s population will suffer ‘moderate to severe water stress’ by 2050. A rise in water pollution can also cause public health problems, specifically water-borne diseases.