Final answer:
Environmental degradation is a risk of a linear economy, leading to excessive resource use and waste generation that impacts the environment negatively.
Step-by-step explanation:
The risk of a linear economy mentioned in the choices is environmental degradation. A linear economy is based on the 'take, make, dispose' model, which often results in excessive resource use and significant waste generation.
Due to this unsustainable approach, a linear economy can lead to deforestation, loss of biodiversity, habitat destruction, and pollution, impacting ecological balance and long-term environmental health.
Environmental degradation also includes the depletion of natural resources such as water and fuel, leading to further economic and social challenges.
Resource conservation, sustainable development, and circular economy are alternatives or goals that differ from a linear economy. Resource conservation involves managing and using resources wisely to avoid depletion.
On the other hand, sustainable development aims to meet the needs of the present without compromising the needs of future generations.
Finally, a circular economy is an economic system aimed at eliminating waste and the continual use of resources, contrasting with the linear model by recycling and reusing materials.