Study Guide for "Water, Land, People, & Conflict"

Produced by America's Defense Monitor

28:30 minutes

AUDIENCE

High school, college, adult

SUBJECTS

Environmental degradation, natural resource scarcity, population growth, national security, conflict

DISCUSSION GUIDE

1. Name some natural resources which are key to the survival of human life on earth?

2. What natural resources are currently in high demand and could potentially lead to conflict?

3. What is an example of where water scarcity may cause conflict between nations?

4. Can a scarce natural resource, such as water or fertile cropland, cause conflict within a society?

5. How is population growth related to environmental degradation and resource scarcity?

6. What are some reasons for the decline of the world's fisheries?

7. Describe how environmental problems can lead to instability within and between countries.

8. How might environmental problems pose a danger to a nation's security?

9. How might countries avoid conflict over scarce natural resources?

10. Do you think a healthy environment is an indication of how stable a country is overall?

11. Are you concerned with environmental problems that effect other countries? Why?

12. Do you think environmental problems in other countries require the same level of attention as potential military threats?