Evaluate the following statement:

"Water scarcity problems are best addressed through technological developments, rather than through changing human behaviour" [9 marks]

Indicative Content	Guidance
Water scarcity: Define / explain the concept of water scarcity Differentiate between physical scarcity and economic scarcity Use key terms → e.g. water accessibility / distribution / security / approaches to water management Technological developments: Discuss benefits and drawbacks of technological solutions to address water scarcity → e.g. desalination / artificial recharge of aquifers / rainwater harvesting / grey-water recycling Explore the role of technology in enhancing water availability → e.g. for agriculture / domestic use / industrial purposes Highlight the global impact of technological advancements in addressing water scarcity issues Human behaviour changes: Discuss the significance of altering human behaviour in water conservation → e.g. reducing water consumption / efficient water use practices / lifestyle changes Discuss the potential impact of education / awareness programs on changing water consumption habits Explore socio-cultural aspects influencing water use patterns Legislation and policies: Discuss the role of policies / legislation in managing water resources Explore how regulatory frameworks can encourage sustainable water use practices Highlight examples of successful policies that promote water conservation Comparative analysis: Provide a balanced analysis of the effectiveness of technological solutions versus changes in human behaviour Consider case studies or examples from different geographical locations to illustrate the complexities of water scarcity Address limitations / challenges associated with both technological and behavioural approaches	You will always have to answer two 9-mark questions from Section B in your IB ESS SL Paper 2 exam This is a 'level of response' answer. The examiner will award you a combined mark out of 9 for knowledge, application, analysis and evaluation ‘Evaluate’ (for 9 marks) requires: Knowledge of concepts, principles and models Application to the context using relevant and focused examples Analysis showing logical and coherent chains of reasoning of a range of issues Evaluation showing critical thinking linked to the context Depth is more important than breadth It is sensible to discuss two or three main points but to apply, analyse and evaluate them fully For top-level evaluation, informed judgement is required This can be demonstrated in a conclusion that synthesises and weighs up the arguments to form a supported answer to the question
Model Answer
Water scarcity is a complex global challenge with serious socio-economic implications. Solving this challenge requires a detailed understanding of possible technological solutions and also how to successfully change people's behaviours. Water scarcity occurs when the availability of water resources is insufficient to meet the demands of a region or population [K]. Physical scarcity occurs when water demand becomes greater than available naturally replenished resources, leading to a physical lack of water. Economic scarcity occurs when water resources are available, but insufficient investments or infrastructure result in limited accessibility [K]. Potential solutions need to address both scarcity types [An]. Technological advancements are playing an important role in addressing both physical and economic water scarcity, with innovations like desalination and rainwater harvesting significantly increasing water availability in regions facing acute shortages. Desalination technologies, for example, can help turn seawater into freshwater, providing a reliable source in arid coastal areas. However, there are extensive energy requirements and environmental impacts, such as brine disposal, associated with desalination [Ap]. Grey-water recycling, the practice of treating and reusing wastewater from domestic sources could be a more sustainable alternative, as treated wastewater can potentially be used for purposes like agricultural irrigation, reducing overall demand. However, challenges associated with the treatment process and potential health concerns represent significant barriers to the widespread adoption of this strategy [Ap]. Changing human behaviour is just as vital for sustainable water management and solving water scarcity problems [An]. Educational initiatives and awareness campaigns can be successful in lowering consumption. For instance, educating communities about efficient irrigation practices and responsible domestic water use can result in significant reductions in water demand [Ap]. However, people often need a financial incentive to change behaviour, so if they have the financial resources to continue with their current rates of water use, then it can be difficult to persuade them to change. In addition, whilst changing behaviours around water use may help reduce physical water scarcity issues, if the infrastructure to make this water accessible to growing populations is insufficient and outdated, water scarcity may continue to be a problem [An]. Legislation and policies also play a significant role in water resource management. Regulations promoting water conservation practices, such as hose-pipe bans and other restrictions on water use in times of scarcity, may be necessary and can be effective [Ap]. However, the success of policies relies on proper enforcement mechanisms and the compliance of communities. In conclusion, whilst technological developments will continue to be invaluable in mitigating water scarcity, they should complement, not replace, changes in human behaviour [E]. Sustainable solutions require a holistic approach that integrates technological advancements, behavioural changes, and effective policies. Addressing the root causes of water scarcity by altering societal behaviours and encouraging responsible consumption habits is equally as important as technology in ensuring long-term water security [E].
Commentary
This answer is an example - yours may be different The answer discusses the two main solutions to water scarcity, as well as considering a third angle, and finishes with a supported final judgement The effectiveness of each solution is evaluated in their respective paragraphs The response is annotated to show where the skills of knowledge (K), application (Ap), analysis (An) and evaluation (E) have been demonstrated

Access to Fresh Water (SL IB Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS))

Topic Questions