geography case studies, memorising format Flashcards
(106 cards)
1
Q
What was the aim of China’s One Child Policy introduced in 1979?
A
To control rapid population growth
The policy aimed to reduce birth rates significantly and avoid overpopulation, leading to demographic, economic, and social challenges.
2
Q
What were the penalties for couples who violated the One Child Policy?
A
10% salary cut, large fines, loss of access to social services
Couples faced significant financial and social penalties for having more than one child.
3
Q
What is the ‘4-2-1 problem’ associated with China’s One Child Policy?
A
1 child supports 2 parents and 4 grandparents
This demographic issue arises from the policy, placing a burden on the youth.
4
Q
What were some social impacts of China’s One Child Policy?
A
- Increased educational and career achievement in urban women born after 1980
- Cultural preference for sons led to increased abortion of daughters, infanticide, and abandonment of girls
These impacts have long-term effects on society and gender balance.
5
Q
What were some economic impacts of China’s One Child Policy?
A
- Families could afford more for one child’s education
- Population growth stayed below GDP growth
- Aging population slows productivity
These impacts highlight the economic challenges that arose from the policy.
6
Q
What was the primary function of the Three Gorges Dam completed in 2003?
A
Flood control, hydroelectric power generation
The dam aimed to reduce flooding and enhance energy independence in China.
7
Q
What were the social impacts of the Three Gorges Dam?
A
- 1.2 million people displaced from various cities and towns
- Poor compensation leading to social inequality
- Submersion of historical sites
These impacts highlight the social costs associated with the dam’s construction.
8
Q
What economic benefits did the Three Gorges Dam provide?
A
- Generates 22,500 MW of electricity
- Creates energy revenue over $12 billion/year
- Boosts trade by improving shipping routes
The dam plays a significant role in China’s economic infrastructure.
9
Q
What are the environmental impacts of the Three Gorges Dam?
A
- Cuts coal use by 31 million tons/year
- Saves over 100 million tons of CO₂ emissions annually
- Industrial runoff pollutes the Yangtze River
These impacts illustrate the ecological trade-offs involved.
10
Q
What is the main issue with Nike’s operations in low-income countries?
A
Exploitation of workers and environmental damage
Nike’s outsourcing strategy leads to poor working conditions and minimal local benefit.
11
Q
What are some social impacts of Nike’s operations in LICs?
A
- Poor working conditions and extremely low wages
- Lack of job security as factories relocate
These social issues highlight the consequences of TNC practices in low-income countries.
12
Q
What does the linear economy model emphasize?
A
Take, make, dispose
This model leads to massive waste and environmental harm.
13
Q
What is the circular economy focused on?
A
Repair, reuse, and recycling
This model aims to minimize waste and environmental impact by keeping materials in use longer.
14
Q
What are the environmental impacts of the linear economy?
A
- Uses 98 million tonnes of non-renewable resources per year
- 85% of textiles end up in landfills
- Responsible for 20% of global water waste
These impacts illustrate the negative consequences of the linear economy.
15
Q
What was the role of the United Fruit Company in Central America?
A
Dominated banana exports and influenced local politics
UFC’s control led to the development of ‘banana republics’ and exploitation.
16
Q
What are the long-term social impacts of the United Fruit Company’s operations?
A
- Labor exploitation and harsh working conditions
- Foreign interference weakened democracy
These impacts highlight the legacy of UFC’s dominance in the region.
17
Q
What were the environmental impacts of oil extraction by Shell in the Niger Delta?
A
Contamination of water supplies and landscape alteration
Shell’s operations have led to significant environmental degradation.
18
Q
What is the main theme of the case study on Shell in the Niger Delta?
A
Resource exploitation, environmental degradation, economic development, corporate responsibility
19
Q
When did Shell begin oil extraction in Nigeria?
A
In the 1950s
20
Q
What were the social impacts of Shell’s oil extraction in the Niger Delta?
A
- Low wages for Nigerian workers despite large-scale extraction
- MOSOP protests highlight lack of benefit sharing and environmental harm
- Introduction of education and health programs via Shell initiatives
21
Q
What economic impact did Shell have in the Niger Delta by 2005?
A
Shell was pumping over 1 million barrels/day
22
Q
What legal action did Shell face in 2012?
A
Shell paid an $83 million settlement after a lawsuit by Ogoni residents
23
Q
Fill in the blank: Oil contamination of drinking water and natural habitats is an example of _______.
A
[environmental impact]
24
Q
What predictions were made regarding the future of the Niger Delta communities?
A
- Without stronger local governance, environmental issues may persist
- CSR programs may improve youth opportunities but won’t fully offset decades of damage
- Communities may continue demanding reparations and greater autonomy
25
What were some strengths or success factors identified in the Niger Delta case study?
* Successful lawsuit showed corporate accountability is possible
* Shell’s LiveWire and scholarship programs provided tangible benefits to local entrepreneurs
26
What weaknesses or limitations were noted in the Niger Delta case study?
* Compensation came decades after damage was done
* Shell’s investments seen by many as damage control rather than justice
27
What is the primary theme of the case study on foreign aid in Nigeria?
Development, aid dependency, poverty, governance
28
What major social issue does Nigeria face according to the foreign aid case study?
An infant mortality rate of 100 per 1,000 live births
29
What is one of the major impacts of the Nets for Life program in Nigeria?
Improved access to malaria prevention in rural areas
30
What are some of the economic impacts of foreign aid in Nigeria?
* Support for entrepreneurs boosts local economies
* World Bank loans aid diversification efforts
* Alleged misuse of aid undermines effectiveness
31
True or False: Donor mistrust of the Nigerian government is a long-term issue.
True
32
What was the primary focus of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano eruption case study?
Volcanic hazards, atmospheric impacts, economic disruption
33
What were some of the immediate social impacts of the Eyjafjallajökull eruption?
* About 500 people evacuated due to lava and ash threats
* Sporting events and daily life disrupted across Europe
34
What economic impact did the Eyjafjallajökull eruption have on airlines?
£130 million lost per day during the no-fly period
35
What environmental impact was associated with the Eyjafjallajökull eruption?
* 150,000 tonnes of CO₂ released per day
* SO₂ emissions caused acid rain risk
36
What major prediction was made regarding future volcanic activity in Iceland?
Iceland’s volcanoes will continue to pose risks due to glacial cover and global air traffic proximity
37
What was the magnitude of the Haiti earthquake in 2010?
7.0
38
What was one of the secondary impacts of the Haiti earthquake?
A deadly cholera outbreak
39
Fill in the blank: The Haitian earthquake destroyed _______ of the healthcare system.
[60%]
40
What were some of the economic impacts of the Haiti earthquake?
* 30,000 commercial buildings destroyed
* $7.8 billion in damage
41
What weaknesses were identified in the recovery efforts after the Haiti earthquake?
* Haitian government misused aid funds
* NGOs were often poorly coordinated
42
What was the magnitude of the Tohoku earthquake in Japan?
9.0
43
What was one of the immediate responses to the Tohoku earthquake?
Debris cleared within 2 days by the Japanese Army
44
What long-term environmental impact resulted from the Tohoku tsunami?
Coastal ecosystems destroyed
45
What major weakness was identified in the nuclear infrastructure during the Tohoku disaster?
Lacked resilience to tsunami damage
46
What are some social impacts of urbanization in Tokyo?
* High crime rates
* Ageing population straining hospitals
* Overpopulation and housing shortages
47
What environmental impact is associated with Tokyo's urbanization?
Urban Heat Island effect contributing to a 1.5°C increase in temperature
48
Fill in the blank: The ageing population in Tokyo is expected to reach _______ by 2040.
[34.8% over 65]
49
What is the primary theme of the case study on industrial fishing in Japan?
Overfishing, biodiversity loss, marine ecosystems, cultural and economic impacts
50
What is one social impact of overfishing on traditional fishers in Japan?
Livelihood loss for traditional fishers
51
What environmental impact results from the removal of top predators in marine ecosystems?
Food chain instability and trophic cascades
52
What is reducing Japan’s role as a global marine biodiversity hotspot?
Destructive fishing techniques and habitat loss
## Footnote
The removal of top predators leads to food chain instability and trophic cascades.
53
What are some social impacts of declining fish stocks in Japan?
* Livelihood loss for traditional fishers
* Loss of cultural practices like fishing in Taiji
* Young generations turning away from ancestral trades
* Marginalization of local fishers by industrial fleets
## Footnote
These impacts are long-term.
54
What environmental impacts are caused by industrial fishing methods in Japan?
* Destruction of coral reefs, kelp forests, and seagrass beds
* Bycatch affecting marine ecosystems
* Reduced ocean's ability to absorb carbon and produce oxygen
* Collapse of the ocean's food chain
* Destabilization of ecosystems due to trophic cascades
* Decreased resilience of marine ecosystems to disease and environmental change
## Footnote
These impacts are long-term.
55
What predictions are made for Japan's coastal ecosystems if current trends continue?
* Full ecosystem collapse
* Cultural extinction of small-scale fishing practices
* Continued biodiversity loss threatening ocean oxygen production and climate regulation
## Footnote
These predictions emphasize the urgency for reform.
56
What strengths are identified in response to coastal ecosystem collapse in Japan?
* Growing awareness prompting discussion
* Economic and scientific resources available for monitoring marine health
* Existing coastal traditions that could guide sustainable practices
## Footnote
These strengths depend on political will.
57
What weaknesses limit the sustainability efforts in Japan's marine environments?
* Lack of enforcement in sustainability certifications
* Resistance to external pressure for change
* Overdependence on industrial fishing
## Footnote
These weaknesses hinder progress toward sustainability.
58
Fill in the blank: The mnemonic 'F.I.S.H' stands for ______.
Food chain disruption, Industrial fleet pressure, Species collapse, Heritage loss
59
What is the base of the ocean food chain?
Plankton & algae
## Footnote
They are eaten by krill, which are then consumed by fish and whales.
60
What is the impact of too much heat absorbed by oceans?
Plants/animals must adapt or die
## Footnote
This is a consequence of global warming.
61
What is the current status of krill populations in some areas?
Krill populations have decreased by 80%
## Footnote
They require cold, icy water to thrive.
62
How does climate change affect fish migration?
Fish migrate towards poles due to warmer oceans
## Footnote
This disrupts fishing industries and marine food chains.
63
What are the implications of melting ice in the Arctic?
* Global warming leads to ice melt
* Low albedo water absorbs more sunlight
* Greenland ice sheet melt could cause 20 ft sea level rise
## Footnote
The recent sea level rise is estimated at 6–8 inches.
64
What survival threats do polar bears face due to melting ice?
* Longer fasting periods leading to poor health
* Lower reproduction and more cub deaths
* Risk of local extinction
## Footnote
Polar bears rely on sea ice for hunting.
65
What were the reasons for Boracay Island's closure in 2018?
* Unchecked tourism
* Pollution
* Zoning violations
## Footnote
This closure was aimed at ensuring long-term sustainability.
66
What changes were implemented during Boracay's rehabilitation?
* Installed modern sewage and drainage systems
* Demolished illegal buildings
* Cleaned and replanted beaches and wetlands
* Regulated tourist activities
* Launched sustainable tourism program
* Imposed a cap on tourist numbers
## Footnote
These measures were taken to protect the island's ecosystem.
67
What are the long-term social impacts of Boracay's rehabilitation?
* Improvement in public health and sanitation
* Strengthened local environmental awareness
## Footnote
These improvements stem from eco-tourism education.
68
What economic impacts were observed following Boracay's closure?
* Disruption of a major source of national income
* Long-term tourism revenue secured through sustainable practices
## Footnote
The island recovered with significant tourist numbers in 2023.
69
What are the cultural impacts of Boracay's rehabilitation?
* Shift toward cultural preservation
* Risk of local displacement due to tourism infrastructure
## Footnote
These impacts highlight the balance needed between tourism and local culture.
70
What are the strengths of Boracay's rehabilitation efforts?
* Bold government-led closure
* Infrastructure upgrades
* Community engagement in sustainable tourism
## Footnote
These factors contribute to the success of the rehabilitation.
71
What weaknesses are associated with Boracay's rehabilitation?
* Economic losses during closure
* Risk of reverting to over-tourism
* Socio-cultural displacement issues
## Footnote
Ongoing monitoring is necessary to prevent issues.
72
What is the main theme of the Maldives' case study?
Climate change and its impacts on tourism and the environment
## Footnote
The Maldives faces significant threats due to its low elevation.
73
What are the environmental impacts of climate change in the Maldives?
* Coral reef destruction
* Land reclamation causing irreversible damage
* Coral bleaching affecting biodiversity
## Footnote
Most of the Maldives is only 1m above sea level.
74
What predictions are made regarding the Maldives' habitability?
Most of the Maldives may be uninhabitable in 30 years
## Footnote
Estimates suggest a sea level rise of up to 59cm by 2100.
75
What proactive adaptation steps is the Maldives government taking?
* Construction of 3m sea walls
* Evacuation of inhabited islands
* Building homes on stilts
* Planning floating golf courses
## Footnote
These measures aim to preserve tourism and protect residents.
76
What challenges does the Maldives face despite adaptation efforts?
* Long-term viability is uncertain
* Relocation plans are expensive
* Resort expansion worsens environmental degradation
## Footnote
These challenges complicate the response to climate change.
77
What are the key features of the sustainable city in Dubai?
* Renewable energy use
* Efficient infrastructure
* Community-focused design
## Footnote
This city aims to reduce environmental impact and improve quality of life.
78
What are the environmental impacts of the sustainable city in Dubai?
* 78% lower emissions footprint
* 12,000 tonnes of CO₂ saved
* Urban greenery improving air quality
## Footnote
These statistics reflect the city's success in sustainability.
79
What social benefits arise from the sustainable city design in Dubai?
* Improved mental and physical well-being
* Community engagement in sustainable practices
## Footnote
Parks and sports facilities foster inclusion.
80
What economic impacts are associated with the sustainable city in Dubai?
* Low cost of living
* Job creation in green sectors
* Reduced food miles via local production
## Footnote
These factors contribute to economic sustainability.
81
What are the strengths of the sustainable city project in Dubai?
* Integrated design reducing commuting
* Climate-resilient structures
* High resident involvement in sustainability
## Footnote
These strengths enhance the project's effectiveness.
82
What is the theme of the migration case study from India to the UAE?
Migration, cultural globalization, global interconnectivity
## Footnote
This case highlights the strong links between India and the UAE.
83
What are the cultural impacts of Indian migration to the UAE?
* Bollywood movies in UAE cinemas
* Growth of Indian businesses
* Indian cuisine and music widely present
## Footnote
Cultural exchange enriches the UAE's diversity.
84
What are the social impacts of Indian migration to the UAE?
* Job opportunities for migrants
* Improved healthcare and education access
* Formation of Indian communities
## Footnote
These factors enhance the quality of life for migrants.
85
What is the summary of the demographic imbalance in the UAE?
Emiratis form only 11–12% of the population, raising concerns over cultural preservation
## Footnote
This demographic shift challenges national identity.
86
What are the social impacts of the demographic imbalance in the UAE?
* Cultural alienation for Emiratis
* Pressure to adapt traditional values
* Changes to laws affecting social cohesion
## Footnote
These impacts highlight the challenges of a multicultural society.
87
What are the urbanization impacts of rapid migration in the UAE?
* Urban sprawl and rapid city expansion
* Transformation into multicultural hubs
## Footnote
These changes present integration challenges.
88
What predictions are made regarding the future demographic changes in the UAE?
Further demographic change may intensify identity concerns and policy adjustments
## Footnote
The UAE must balance global openness with cultural preservation.
89
What is a primary weakness in maintaining Sharia-based legislation in the UAE?
Difficulty maintaining Sharia-based legislation across a highly diverse population
## Footnote
This highlights the challenges of governance in a multicultural society.
90
What cultural issue arises from the interaction between locals and expatriates in the UAE?
Cultural miscommunication and friction between locals and expatriates
## Footnote
This can lead to social tensions and misunderstandings.
91
What social challenge is faced in transient communities in the UAE?
Social integration remains a challenge in highly transient communities
## Footnote
This affects community cohesion and identity.
92
What is the economic contribution of tourism to the UAE's GDP?
Tourism generates over $43.3 billion, accounting for 12.2% of GDP
## Footnote
This underlines the importance of tourism to the national economy.
93
What long-term cultural impact can tourism have on Emirati traditions?
Loss of Emirati traditions due to over-commercialization
## Footnote
This raises concerns about cultural erosion.
94
What short-term cultural impact does tourism have on global understanding?
Cultural exchange promotes global understanding
## Footnote
This can enhance international relations and cultural appreciation.
95
What innovative project addresses water scarcity in Ladakh, India?
The Ice Stupa Project
## Footnote
This project uses ice structures to manage seasonal water supply.
96
What is the main purpose of the Ice Stupa Project?
To store winter water in cone-shaped ice structures for gradual release in spring
## Footnote
This supports agriculture and food security.
97
What social impact does the Ice Stupa Project have on local communities?
Communities collaborate to build and maintain stupas
## Footnote
This fosters teamwork and community empowerment.
98
What environmental impact does the Ice Stupa Project provide?
Offers climate resilience against shrinking glaciers
## Footnote
This is crucial for long-term water security.
99
What innovative technology is used in cloud seeding in the UAE?
Drones and aircraft to inject salts or silver iodide into clouds
## Footnote
This enhances rainfall and supports water security.
100
What is a major environmental concern associated with cloud seeding?
Environmental concerns about long-term chemical accumulation
## Footnote
This raises questions about sustainability and safety.
101
What has been the economic contribution of Syrian refugees in Turkey?
Syrian migrants have contributed $200 billion in savings and business ventures
## Footnote
This highlights the positive economic impact of refugees.
102
What is a significant social challenge for Syrian refugees in Turkey?
90% of Syrian refugees survive on less than $100/month
## Footnote
This indicates the economic hardships faced by refugees.
103
What prediction is made regarding the legal status of Syrian refugees in Turkey?
Unless legal status is improved, social integration will remain a challenge
## Footnote
This emphasizes the need for policy changes.
104
Fill in the blank: The Ice Stupa Project was developed by _______.
Sonam Wangchuk
## Footnote
He is an engineer and environmentalist known for his innovative solutions.
105
What mnemonic can summarize the strengths of the Ice Stupa Project?
S.T.U.P.A: Spring water storage, Traditional + tech fusion, Unites community, Poverty reduction, Agricultural revival
## Footnote
This mnemonic reflects the project's multifaceted benefits.
106
True or False: Cloud seeding in the UAE has no environmental impacts.
False
## Footnote
There are concerns about environmental impacts, including chemical accumulation.
