Conceptual Questions
Q1: Why is the distinction between “Stock” and “Reserve” important in resources?
(Note: While not explicitly defined in this chapter text, this concept aids understanding “Technologically Accessible” and “Economically Feasible”)
- Stock: All materials in the environment that have the potential to satisfy human needs (e.g., Hydrogen in water is a potential energy source).
- Reserve: The subset of the stock that can be put into use with existing technology (e.g., Water in dams).
- Significance: We must turn more stock into reserves through R&D (like making solar cells cheaper).
Q2: Explain the term “Lokasangraha” in the context of resource management.
Answer: “Lokasangraha” is a concept from the Bhagavad Gita mentioned in the chapter. It refers to the idea that individuals must transcend personal desires and act for the wellbeing of all (collective welfare).
- In resource management, this means not hoarding or over-exploiting resources for personal profit but managing them so that the entire society and future generations benefit. It is the spiritual foundation of Sustainability.
Q3: How does the “Natural Resource Curse” affect a nation’s development?
Answer: The “Natural Resource Curse” or “Paradox of Plenty” occurs when resource-rich countries fail to develop other sectors of their economy.
- Over-reliance: They rely only on selling raw materials (oil, coal).
- Currency fluctuation: High exports make local currency expensive, hurting other industries like manufacturing.
- Neglect: Education and innovation are often neglected.
- Result: Despite having gold or oil, the general population remains poor (e.g., certain African or Latin American nations). India avoids this by using resources to build domestic industries.
Diagram: The Sustainable Cycle
The goal of stewardship is to keep the resource loop closed.