Energy Landscape: Distribution, Geopolitics, and Environment



Published on 18 Feb 2025

  • Spatial Distribution and Accessibility of Energy Resources

    • Renewable Energy: Solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal energy resources are unevenly distributed based on climatic, hydrological, and geological conditions. 

      • Example: Solar Energy is abundant in equatorial and tropical regions while Wind Energy is significant in coastal and high-altitude areas.

    • Non-Renewable Resources: Coal, oil, and natural gas are concentrated in specific geological formations. 

      • Example: Major oil reserves are found in Middle East and significant coal, oil and gas deposits can be found in North America, Asia and Europe.

  • Geopolitical Implications of Energy Resources

    • Resource-Rich Countries: Nations with abundant energy resources hold substantial geopolitical power. 

      • Example: Saudi Arabia influences global oil markets as a leading OPEC member. Also, Russia uses its gas supplies to Europe as a strategic tool in diplomatic and economic affairs.

    • Resource-Poor Countries: Nations lacking energy resources face challenges in energy security and sustainability. 

      • Example: Japan is highly dependent on energy imports, vulnerable to market fluctuations and geopolitical tensions. 

  • Environmental Impact of Energy Production 

    • Environmental Impacts: Energy extraction, production, and consumption have significant environmental effects. 

      • Example: Oil extraction in Assam leads to deforestation, soil contamination, and water pollution, while natural gas extraction in the Krishna-Godavari and Cambay Basins causes land subsidence and water contamination.

Tags:
Geography

Keywords:
Energy Landscape Energy Distribution Geopolitics of energy Spatial Distribution and Accessibility of Energy Resources Geopolitical Implications of Energy Resources Environmental Impact of Energy Production

Syllabus:
General Studies Paper 1

Topics:
Resources Distribution

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