AP Human Geography: Final Topic Review

Interconnected Economic Systems and Globalization

• Economic production is shifting globally.
• Questions about the sustainability of current globalized practices:
  • Sustainable Development: Development meets current generation’s needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.
  • Concerns over resource depletion as countries industrialize.

Economic and Environmental Challenges

• Demographic Transition Model: Economic progress can reduce growth rates, easing local environmental pressures.
• Increased economic development leads to:
  • Higher consumption of fossil fuels
  • Rise in consumerism
  • Higher land and resource usage
  • Increased energy demand
  • Resulting in resource depletion and environmental degradation.

Environmental Degradation

• Natural Resource Exploitation:
  • Leads to land degradation (soil erosion, desertification, soil salinization, deforestation)
  • Example: Aral Sea dried up due to Soviet river diversion, negatively impacting local economies.
• Pollution and Waste:
  • Increased consumption leads to pollution and larger landfills.
  • Climate change impacts include regional water shortages (e.g., Western USA).

Sustainable Practices and Solutions

• Corporate Initiatives:
  • Patagonia uses recycled materials, aims for 100% renewable electricity.
  • Ikea aims to become climate positive by 2030.
• Governmental Actions:
  • Support green energy, reduce urban sprawl, enhance recycling, promote carpooling.

Ecotourism and Sustainable Development Goals

• Ecotourism:
  • Promotes conservation and provides educational experiences.
  • Supports local economies and environments.
• UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
  • 17 goals focusing on societal development aspects.
  • Emphasize reducing poverty through education and sustainable urban development.
  • Encourages formal economy participation, reducing inequalities.

Conclusion

• This video marks the end of the topic reviews, but not the course preparation.
• Students are urged to use the ultimate review packet for further preparation.
• Thank you note from Mr. Sin for student support throughout the year.

Next Steps: Prepare for the AP exam using available resources and continue engaging with Unit 7 and other review materials. Best of luck in your studies!