Question

Answer the following questions in about 120 words.

How have technical and economic development led to more consumption of resources?

Answer 1

Technical and economic development has led to more consumption of resources on account of various factors. In colonial times, imperial powers used their technological and economic superiority to establish control over other countries and thereby gain access to their resources. Now, one country’s resources became accessible to the citizens of its colonial ruler too, leading to increased consumption. Also, because of technical and economic progress, populations are increasing due to low mortality at all ages. With the development of medicine and health care, fewer people die due to accidents, diseases, and childbirth. Additionally, industrialisation and urbanisation require large amounts of raw materials, energy, and water. Rising incomes also promote greater use of consumer goods. All these factors together have contributed to higher and often unsustainable consumption of natural resources.