Question

Industrialization, rapid growth of population, and urbanization have all led to unprecedented exploitation of natural resources like minerals, forests, soil, water, air, etc., as well as the sources of energy (coal, petroleum, etc.) stored in the earth for billions of years. This has resulted in rapid deforestation and decline of reserves of minerals, oil, and groundwater. Many scientists have argued that the present way of life is not 'sustainable' for life. If we use such large quantities of natural resources, nothing will be left for our children and grandchildren.

a) The paragraph highlights the importance of sustainable living.
b) The paragraph emphasizes the benefits of rapid exploitation.
c) The paragraph discusses the benefits of urbanization.
d) The paragraph promotes unlimited resource use.

Answer 1

The passage underscores the dangers of unsustainably exploiting natural resources due to industrialization, urbanization, and population growth. It advocates for sustainable living to ensure resources remain for future generations and notes the historical pattern of economic collapse following the unchecked use of natural resources.

Step-by-step explanation:

The paragraph in question asserts that the current trajectory of resource exploitation due to industrialization, population growth, and urbanization is unsustainable and could deplete the world's natural resources, such as minerals, forests, water, and energy sources like coal and petroleum. These activities have led to rapid deforestation and a decline in reserves of critical resources, raising concerns that future generations may lack what is necessary for a sustainable life. The notion that our way of life must be adjusted to fit within the means of our natural resources aligns with the concept of sustainable living, which aims to meet the current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

The encroachment on natural resources, such as through deforestation, mining, and excessive use of fossil fuels, poses significant threats to biodiversity, ecosystems, and human welfare. These practices not only result in habitat destruction and a decline in the diversity of life but are also major contributors to climate change. History has provided ample evidence that economic models based on unchecked exploitation of natural resources are doomed to collapse.

Overall, human population growth and our consumption patterns are leading to unsustainable levels of resource use and environmental destruction, which is why it's imperative for societies to innovate and adopt more sustainable practices. The prevailing use of resources and degradation of the environment is a global issue with significant implications for sustainability, biodiversity, and the quality of life for all Earth's inhabitants.