IB DP · Thinka 原創模擬試題

2025 IB DP Environmental Systems and Societies 模擬試題連答案詳解

Thinka May 2025 SL (TZ1) IB Diploma Programme-Style Mock — Environmental Systems and Societies

100 分180 分鐘2025
分析模擬試題
An original Thinka practice paper modelled on the structure and difficulty of the May 2025 SL (TZ1) IB Diploma Programme Environmental Systems and Societies paper. Not affiliated with or reproduced from IB.

卷一 (Case Study)

Answer all questions. Refer to the resource booklet. One final 6-mark synthesis essay is included.
9 題目 · 35 分
題目 1 · Data Analysis & Short Answer
3.625 分
With reference to Figure 1, outline how a positive feedback loop can accelerate the loss of glacial ice cover in the Altiplano Basin, and suggest one way in which human management could attempt to disrupt this loop.
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解題

Step 1: Identify the components of the feedback loop: rising temperatures melt reflective white ice, exposing darker rock or soil beneath. Step 2: Explain the feedback: darker surfaces have lower albedo and absorb more solar radiation, raising local temperatures and accelerating further melting (positive feedback). Step 3: Suggest mitigation: humans can apply high-albedo geotextile blankets over key glacial zones or implement carbon sequestration to address the root atmospheric warming.

評分準則

1.625 marks for outlining the positive feedback cycle (0.625 mark for albedo reduction, 1 mark for the reinforcing cycle explanation). 2 marks for suggesting a viable management strategy (1 mark for local/geotextile/reflective methods and 1 mark for explanation of how it disrupts the loop).
題目 2 · Data Analysis & Short Answer
3.625 分
Using the data in Figure 2, calculate the ecological efficiency between the primary consumers (energy = 3600 kJ per square meter per year) and secondary consumers (energy = 450 kJ per square meter per year), and explain two biological factors that limit the assimilation of energy at higher trophic levels.
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解題

Step 1: Calculate ecological efficiency using the formula: (Energy at higher level / Energy at lower level) * 100. Thus, (450 / 3600) * 100 = 12.5%. Step 2: Explain factors limiting energy transfer: 1) Respiration: much of the assimilated energy is used for metabolic maintenance and lost as heat. 2) Incomplete consumption: parts of organisms (such as bones, shells, or roots) are not consumed and enter the decomposer pathway instead.

評分準則

1.625 marks for the correct calculation and unit: 1 mark for correct division (450/3600), 0.625 mark for final percentage (12.5%). 2 marks for explaining two factors: 1 mark for respiration/heat loss and 1 mark for uneaten parts/waste.
題目 3 · Data Analysis & Short Answer
3.625 分
With reference to biogeographical design principles shown in Figure 3, evaluate which of the proposed reserves (A, B, or C) would be most effective at conserving the endangered Altiplano Chinchilla, and state one potential drawback of relying solely on a single large reserve.
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解題

Step 1: Evaluate the design of Reserve A. It is large, compact (circular), and features a central core with buffer zones and corridors, maximizing carrying capacity and genetic flow while minimizing detrimental edge effects. Step 2: Contrast with reserves B (fragmented) and C (elongated/isolated). Step 3: Address the single large reserve drawback (SLOSS debate): if a catastrophic event (e.g., disease, invasive species, fire) hits, the entire population could be wiped out, whereas multiple small reserves provide insurance.

評分準則

2.625 marks for evaluation: 1 mark for choosing Reserve A, 1 mark for linking size/shape to edge effects, and 0.625 mark for mentioning corridors/connectivity. 1 mark for identifying a valid drawback of a single large reserve (e.g., disease, localized disasters).
題目 4 · Data Analysis & Short Answer
3.625 分
Describe the relationship between Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Dissolved Oxygen (DO) downstream from the organic waste discharge point shown in Figure 4, and explain how this change affects the macroinvertebrate community structure.
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解題

Step 1: Describe the inverse relationship downstream from the discharge point. BOD increases sharply as decomposers feed on organic waste, which consumes oxygen and causes DO levels to fall (oxygen sag curve). Step 2: Explain the ecological shift. Clean-water organisms (e.g., stonefly, mayfly nymphs) requiring high DO die out or migrate. They are replaced by pollution-tolerant species (e.g., tubifex worms, midge larvae) that thrive in low-oxygen, high-organic conditions, decreasing species diversity and evenness.

評分準則

1.625 marks for describing the relationship: 1 mark for identifying the inverse relationship/sag curve, 0.625 mark for linking BOD spike to oxygen depletion by decomposers. 2 marks for explaining community change: 1 mark for loss of sensitive species/diversity decrease, 1 mark for rise of tolerant species.
題目 5 · Data Analysis & Short Answer
3.625 分
Compare the projected impacts of RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 scenarios on the hydrology of the Altiplano basin as shown in Figure 5, and suggest how these changes could influence the release of soil-bound greenhouse gases.
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解題

Step 1: Compare the scenarios. RCP 8.5 is the high-emission pathway, projecting a much greater temperature rise (e.g., +4.2 degrees C) and a more severe reduction in dry-season precipitation (-25%) than the moderate RCP 4.5 (+2.1 degrees C, -10%). Step 2: Suggest the feedback mechanism on soil-bound gases. Higher temperatures and drying of wetlands/soils increase soil aeration, accelerating aerobic decomposition of organic matter, which releases CO2. Alternatively, melting permafrost can create anoxic thermokarst lakes, releasing CH4.

評分準則

2 marks for comparison: 1 mark for comparing temperature differences, 1 mark for comparing precipitation differences between RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5. 1.625 marks for soil-bound greenhouse gas mechanism: 1 mark for linking drying/warming to increased decomposition or permafrost melt, 0.625 mark for identifying the specific gas released (CO2 or CH4).
題目 6 · Data Analysis & Short Answer
3.625 分
Analyze the trends in waste generation and recycling rates shown in Figure 6, and suggest how the city could apply the principles of a circular economy to reduce the volume of municipal waste sent to landfills.
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解題

Step 1: Analyze Figure 6 trends: overall municipal waste generation has risen steadily (e.g., from 200k to 350k tonnes), while recycling rates have remained stagnant at 15%, indicating an increasing volume of waste going to landfill. Step 2: Apply circular economy principles: shift from a linear 'take-make-waste' model. (a) Design products for longevity and disassembly so components can be easily recovered. (b) Establish Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) to force manufacturers to take back packaging. (c) Biorefineries or composting for organic waste to close nutrient loops.

評分準則

1.625 marks for trend analysis: 1 mark for identifying rising waste generation, 0.625 mark for identifying plateauing/low recycling rates. 2 marks for circular economy suggestions: 1 mark each for two distinct, valid suggestions with appropriate explanation (e.g., eco-design, EPR, composting, remanufacturing).
題目 7 · Data Analysis & Short Answer
3.625 分
Contrast the demographic profiles of the rural and urban populations shown in Figure 7, and explain how rural-to-urban migration drives the differences in their respective dependency ratios.
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解題

Step 1: Contrast demographic profiles. The rural population has a wide base (high birth rates) and narrow top, characteristic of an expansive population. The urban population has a narrower base and a distinct bulge in the 20-39 age brackets, indicating a high proportion of working-age adults. Step 2: Explain migration and dependency ratios. Rural-to-urban migration is selective of young adults seeking employment. Their movement reduces the proportion of active workers in rural areas, raising the rural dependency ratio (more children and elderly left behind per worker). Conversely, it increases the working-age denominator in urban areas, lowering the urban dependency ratio.

評分準則

1.625 marks for contrasting profiles: 1 mark for describing the rural expansive/young profile, 0.625 mark for describing the urban working-age bulge. 2 marks for explaining dependency ratio dynamics: 1 mark for explaining how rural-to-urban migration drains rural workers (increasing rural dependency ratio), 1 mark for explaining how it inflates the urban workforce (lowering urban dependency ratio).
題目 8 · Data Analysis & Short Answer
3.625 分
With reference to the soil erosion rates in Figure 8, evaluate the effectiveness of agroforestry terracing compared to conventional tillage, and outline how vegetation cover preserves the physical and chemical properties of soil.
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解題

Step 1: Evaluate the soil erosion rates. Agroforestry terracing reduces soil loss significantly (e.g., from high conventional tillage rates down to negligible levels), proving highly effective. Step 2: Outline physical soil preservation: plant roots physically bind soil particles together, reducing wind/water transport, and the canopy intercepts rain kinetic energy, reducing splash erosion. Step 3: Outline chemical soil preservation: decaying leaf litter returns essential macronutrients (N, P, K) to the soil, forming humus, which increases cation exchange capacity and water-retention capacity.

評分準則

1.625 marks for evaluation: 1 mark for noting the large reduction in erosion rate with agroforestry, 0.625 mark for comparing it directly to the unsustainability of conventional tillage. 2 marks for outlining vegetation's role: 1 mark for physical preservation (anchoring/intercepting rain), 1 mark for chemical preservation (humus/nutrient cycling).
題目 9 · Synthesis Essay
6 分
With reference to the resource booklet and your own environmental knowledge, evaluate the proposal to transition from traditional shaded agroforestry to intensive solar-energy farms as the primary sustainable development strategy for the tropical region of 'Sola-Verde'.
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解題

Introduction:

Sola-Verde is facing a choice between maintaining traditional shaded agroforestry and transitioning to utility-scale solar-energy farms. This represents a classic conflict between global climate change mitigation (clean energy) and local ecological conservation/social sustainability.

Arguments in favor of the transition (Solar-Energy Farms):

  • Climate change mitigation: Replaces fossil-fuel dependency with clean, renewable energy, significantly lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Economic development: Attracts foreign green investment, creates high-tech jobs during construction, and stabilizes the national energy grid.
  • Land footprint efficiency: Provides a high yield of energy per unit area compared to biomass energy, potentially sparing other areas from fossil fuel extraction.

Arguments against the transition / In favor of Shaded Agroforestry:

  • Loss of biodiversity: Solar farms require clear-cutting of vegetation, which destroys the structurally diverse canopy of shaded agroforestry that supports diverse birds, insects, and mammals.
  • Soil degradation and microclimate change: Stripping the soil of organic cover increases erosion risks, disrupts local hydrological cycles, and creates a localized 'heat island effect' around the panels.
  • Socio-cultural impacts: Traditional agroforestry supports local food security (providing fruits, cacao, and vegetables) and preserves indigenous farming knowledge, whereas solar farms offer few long-term local agricultural jobs.
  • Loss of ecosystem services: Agroforestry provides carbon storage in tree biomass and soil, nutrient cycling, and natural pest control, which are entirely lost with solar installations.

Conclusion:

While solar farms are essential for global decarbonization, replacing a highly biodiverse and culturally integrated shaded agroforestry system in 'Sola-Verde' is not a holistic sustainable strategy. A more sustainable approach would involve a compromise, such as preserving agroforestry corridors and installing solar arrays on degraded lands or integrating them with shade-tolerant crops (agrivoltaics) rather than clear-cutting pristine or semi-natural agroforests.

評分準則

[Max 6 Marks] Award 1 mark for each balanced, well-supported point, up to a maximum of 5 marks if no clear, reasoned conclusion is provided.

  • Arguments for Solar Farms (Max 2 marks):
    • Award 1 mark for discussing global climate benefits / carbon footprint reduction.
    • Award 1 mark for discussing macro-economic benefits (e.g., energy security, investment, grid stability).
  • Arguments for Agroforestry / Against Solar Farms (Max 3 marks):
    • Award 1 mark for analyzing biodiversity loss or habitat fragmentation caused by clear-cutting.
    • Award 1 mark for discussing loss of soil stability, disruption of hydrological cycles, or microclimate changes.
    • Award 1 mark for evaluating social and cultural impacts (e.g., loss of food security, displacement of local livelihoods, loss of traditional knowledge).
  • Evaluation / Conclusion (Max 1 mark):
    • Award 1 mark for a clear, reasoned conclusion that synthesizes the perspectives (e.g., suggesting agrivoltaics as a compromise, or pointing out that local ecological degradation outweighs global carbon benefits in this specific biome).

Note to examiners: To achieve 5 or 6 marks, the candidate must explicitly refer to the tension between local ecological/social costs and global/national climate and economic benefits.

卷二 甲部 (Data-based)

Answer all three structured questions based on the provided graphs and diagrams.
3 題目 · 24 分
題目 1 · 卷二 甲部 (Data-based)
8 分
A student collected water quality data at various distances downstream from an organic effluent pipe connected to a local dairy processing plant. The table below displays the results of this study:

| Distance Downstream (m) | Dissolved Oxygen (DO) (mg/L) | Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) (mg/L) | Population Density of Stonefly Nymphs (per \(m^2\)) |
|-------------------------|------------------------------|-----------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------|
| 0 (Outfall) | 8.5 | 1.5 | 45 |
| 50 | 2.1 | 12.0 | 0 |
| 100 | 1.8 | 9.5 | 0 |
| 250 | 3.5 | 5.0 | 2 |
| 500 | 6.2 | 2.2 | 15 |
| 1000 | 8.3 | 1.4 | 42 |

(a) State the relationship between BOD and DO as shown in the data between 0 m and 100 m downstream. [1]
(b) Explain the changes in BOD and DO between 50 m and 500 m downstream. [3]
(c) Describe how the population density of stonefly nymphs changes downstream of the outfall and identify what type of indicator species they are. [2]
(d) Outline one direct method of measuring water quality other than DO or BOD. [2]
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解題

(a) At 0 m (before the discharge impacts), DO is high (8.5 mg/L) and BOD is low (1.5 mg/L). By 50-100 m downstream, BOD spikes to 12.0 mg/L while DO plunges to 1.8 mg/L, demonstrating an inverse/negative correlation.

(b) Between 50 m and 500 m, the organic matter from the dairy plant undergoes biodegradation by aerobic microorganisms. High levels of organic matter trigger rapid bacterial growth, causing high oxygen consumption (high BOD) and a major drop in DO (oxygen sag). As the concentration of organic matter declines (BOD drops from 12.0 to 2.2 mg/L), bacterial respiration decreases, and atmospheric reaeration exceeds consumption, leading to the recovery of DO (from 2.1 to 6.2 mg/L).

(c) Stonefly nymph density drops sharply from 45 to 0 per \(m^2\) immediately after the outfall, showing extreme sensitivity to the organic pollution. Their population begins to recover slowly at 250m (2 per \(m^2\)) and rises to 42 per \(m^2\) at 1000m as water conditions normalize. Because they only thrive in highly oxygenated, unpolluted water, they act as sensitive biotic indicators (biomonitors) of clean water.

(d) Turbidity can be measured using a Secchi disk lowered into the water until it is no longer visible, or a spectrophotometer can be used to measure suspended solids. Alternatively, nitrate or phosphate concentrations can be measured directly using chemical titration or colorimetric test kits.

評分準則

(a) Award 1 mark for stating that they have an inverse, opposite, or negative relationship (e.g., as BOD increases, DO decreases).

(b) Award 1 mark for identifying that high organic waste input stimulates decomposition by aerobic bacteria. Award 1 mark for explaining that high bacterial respiration consumes dissolved oxygen, creating an oxygen sag. Award 1 mark for explaining that as organic matter is depleted, BOD falls, and reaeration/diffusion of oxygen from the air restores DO levels.

(c) Award 1 mark for describing the trend: a sudden decline to zero followed by a gradual recovery as distance increases. Award 1 mark for identifying stoneflies as a clean-water indicator, pollution-sensitive species, or biotic index indicator.

(d) Award 1 mark for identifying a valid direct chemical/physical test (e.g., pH, temperature, turbidity, nitrates, phosphates, heavy metal concentrations). Award 1 mark for outlining how it is measured (e.g., using a Secchi disk for turbidity, or a digital pH probe for acidity).
題目 2 · 卷二 甲部 (Data-based)
8 分
The government of the island nation "Solaria" implemented a green transition policy to shift its electricity generation away from coal toward wind and solar. The table below shows energy grid and emissions data for Solaria between 2010 and 2022:

| Year | Total Energy Generated (TWh) | Coal Generation (% of total) | Solar & Wind (% of total) | Annual Carbon Dioxide Emissions (\(Mt CO_2\)) |
|------|------------------------------|-----------------------------|----------------------------|----------------------------------------------|
| 2010 | 40 | 70 | 10 | 14.2 |
| 2013 | 42 | 55 | 25 | 12.0 |
| 2016 | 45 | 35 | 45 | 9.1 |
| 2019 | 44 | 15 | 65 | 5.8 |
| 2022 | 48 | 5 | 80 | 4.2 |

(a) Calculate the total reduction in annual \(CO_2\) emissions in \(Mt CO_2\) between 2010 and 2022. [1]
(b) Using the data, calculate the actual amount of energy generated from solar & wind in TWh in 2022. [2]
(c) Explain the trend in annual \(CO_2\) emissions with reference to the changing energy mix. [3]
(d) Identify two potential environmental impacts of large-scale solar and wind farm developments on local terrestrial ecosystems. [2]
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解題

(a) Reduction = Emissions in 2010 - Emissions in 2022 = \(14.2\text{ Mt }CO_2 - 4.2\text{ Mt }CO_2 = 10.0\text{ Mt }CO_2\).

(b) In 2022, Total Energy = 48 TWh. Solar & Wind was 80% of this total.
Energy from Solar & Wind = \(48 \times 0.80 = 38.4\text{ TWh}\).

(c) Between 2010 and 2022, Solaria experienced a steady drop in annual \(CO_2\) emissions. This is directly driven by the decarbonization of its grid: coal, which is highly carbon-intensive, dropped from 70% to just 5% of the generation mix. Concurrently, solar and wind (which produce no operational greenhouse gases) expanded from 10% to 80%, successfully offsetting the overall 8 TWh growth in electricity demand without increasing emissions.

(d) 1. Habitat loss and fragmentation due to land clearance for solar panels, transmission lines, and access roads.
2. Turbine-related wildlife mortality, specifically birds and bats killed by spinning wind turbine blades or disrupted by barotrauma.

評分準則

(a) Award 1 mark for the correct calculation: 10.0 \(Mt CO_2\) (accept 10 or 10.0, units not strictly required but calculation must be correct).

(b) Award 1 mark for correct working showing 80% of 48 TWh (e.g., \(48 \times 0.8\)). Award 1 mark for correct final answer: 38.4 TWh.

(c) Award 1 mark for describing the overall reduction in emissions (from 14.2 to 4.2 \(Mt CO_2\)). Award 1 mark for linking this directly to the phase-out of coal (70% down to 5%). Award 1 mark for referencing the compensatory rise in solar and wind power (10% up to 80%) which has a much lower carbon footprint/zero operational emissions.

(d) Award 1 mark each for any two valid impacts. Acceptable answers include: habitat fragmentation/loss, bird/bat mortality from turbines, soil compaction/erosion from solar site construction, alteration of local microclimates/shadowing under panels, or displacement of native species.
題目 3 · 卷二 甲部 (Data-based)
8 分
Ecologists surveyed two temperate forest plots to assess the impact of selective logging. Plot A is an old-growth primary forest, while Plot B is a nearby forest that underwent selective logging 5 years ago. Both plots are 1 hectare in size. The table below lists the number of tree species individuals recorded in each plot:

| Tree Species | Plot A (Primary) | Plot B (Logged) |
|--------------|------------------|-----------------|
| Oak | 40 | 12 |
| Beech | 35 | 8 |
| Maple | 20 | 15 |
| Birch | 5 | 35 |
| Pine | 5 | 30 |
| **Total (N)**| **100** | **100** |

(a) Calculate Simpson's Diversity Index (\(D\)) for **Plot A** using the formula below. Show your working. [3]

\[D = \frac{N(N-1)}{\sum n(n-1)}\]

(b) State what a high value of Simpson's Diversity Index indicates about an ecosystem's stability. [1]
(c) Compare the tree species community structure between Plot A and Plot B, referring to species richness and evenness. [2]
(d) Explain how logging practices can alter succession pathways in a forest ecosystem. [2]
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解題

(a) Calculate \(N(N-1)\):
\(N = 100\)
\(N(N-1) = 100 \times 99 = 9900\)

Calculate \(\sum n(n-1)\) for Plot A:
- Oak: \(40 \times 39 = 1560\)
- Beech: \(35 \times 34 = 1190\)
- Maple: \(20 \times 19 = 380\)
- Birch: \(5 \times 4 = 20\)
- Pine: \(5 \times 4 = 20\)
- Sum = \(1560 + 1190 + 380 + 20 + 20 = 3170\)

Calculate \(D\):
\(D = \frac{9900}{3170} \approx 3.123\) (accept 3.12 or 3.1).

(b) A higher \(D\) value indicates high species diversity, which corresponds to greater ecological stability. A diverse ecosystem contains complex food webs and redundant pathways; if one species is lost to disease or climate stress, others can fill its niche, preventing collapse.

(c) Both Plot A and Plot B have the exact same species richness (5 distinct tree species). However, their evenness differs: Plot A is dominated by late-succession climax hardwoods (Oak and Beech account for 75%), whereas Plot B has been disturbed and is dominated by fast-growing, light-demanding pioneer species (Birch and Pine account for 65%).

(d) Logging removes the mature canopy trees, changing abiotic conditions by increasing light availability, temperature fluctuations, and soil exposure. This resets the successional sequence to an earlier seral stage, favoring opportunistic, r-selected pioneer species (like Birch) over slow-growing, K-selected climax species (like Oak), thereby redirecting or delaying the climax community pathway.

評分準則

(a) Award 1 mark for correct calculation of numerator: \(100 \times 99 = 9900\). Award 1 mark for correct calculation of denominator: \(1560 + 1190 + 380 + 20 + 20 = 3170\). Award 1 mark for correct final index value: 3.12 (accept 3.1).

(b) Award 1 mark for stating that a high index indicates high stability / high resilience to environmental changes / low likelihood of ecosystem collapse.

(c) Award 1 mark for noting that species richness is identical in both plots (5 species). Award 1 mark for stating that evenness/community structure differs, with Plot A dominated by climax species (Oak/Beech) and Plot B dominated by secondary successional/pioneer species (Birch/Pine).

(d) Award 1 mark for explaining that logging opens up the canopy, increasing light availability and altering soil/microclimate. Award 1 mark for explaining that this allows fast-growing r-selected/pioneer species to colonize, resetting or delaying the progression towards a climax community.

卷二 乙部 (Essays)

Answer two out of four structured long-answer questions. Each question consists of parts a (4 marks), b (7 marks), and c (9 marks).
6 題目 · 40 分
題目 1 · essay-part-a
4 分
Outline four differences between tropospheric ozone and stratospheric ozone, including their formation and environmental impacts.
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解題

1. Location: Stratospheric ozone is located in the stratosphere (upper atmosphere), whereas tropospheric ozone is found in the troposphere (at ground level). 2. Environmental Impact: Stratospheric ozone acts as a crucial shield by absorbing harmful UV radiation, whereas tropospheric ozone is a damaging air pollutant and greenhouse gas that harms plant tissues and human respiratory systems. 3. Formation Process: Stratospheric ozone is formed naturally through the action of ultraviolet radiation on oxygen molecules, whereas tropospheric ozone is a secondary pollutant formed by photochemical reactions involving nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the presence of sunlight. 4. Human Influence: Anthropogenic emissions of ozone-depleting substances like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) have depleted stratospheric ozone, whereas human emissions of fossil fuel combustion products have increased the concentration of tropospheric ozone.

評分準則

Award 1 mark for each valid, clearly outlined difference up to a maximum of 4 marks. No fractional marks are allowed.
題目 2 · essay-part-a
4 分
Explain four characteristics of r-strategist species that enable them to successfully colonize newly disturbed environments.
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解題

1. High reproductive rate (large number of offspring): They produce many offspring in a single reproductive event, ensuring that at least some individuals will survive despite unpredictable and harsh post-disturbance conditions. 2. Rapid maturation and short life cycle: They reach reproductive maturity very quickly, allowing them to establish populations and reproduce before resources are depleted or competitors arrive. 3. Small body size: They require fewer energy resources per individual to grow and survive, allowing them to persist in nutrient-poor or degraded habitats left after a disturbance. 4. Highly efficient dispersal mechanisms: They possess adaptations such as lightweight wind-borne seeds or highly mobile larvae that allow them to travel long distances and reach newly cleared geographical niches first.

評分準則

Award 1 mark for each distinct, correctly explained characteristic linked to colonization success, up to a maximum of 4 marks.
題目 3 · essay
7 分
Explain how the choice of mitigation strategies for climate change is influenced by different environmental value systems (EVSs).
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解題

An environmental value system (EVS) shapes how individuals and societies perceive and evaluate environmental issues, directly influencing their preferred climate change mitigation strategies.

1. Ecocentrists advocate for holistic, nature-centered solutions that address the root cause of emissions, which they see as human greed and overconsumption. They promote 'soft ecology' pathways, emphasizing energy conservation, reducing consumption (sufficiency), localizing food and energy production, and preserving natural forests and wetlands (which act as natural carbon sinks) over technological fixes.

2. Anthropocentrists focus on human management of the environment. They support mitigation through regulatory, economic, and cooperative frameworks. This includes implementing carbon taxes, cap-and-trade schemes, international treaties (like the Paris Agreement), and public education campaigns to encourage behavioral changes, aiming to balance economic development with environmental health.

3. Technocentrists believe that human ingenuity and technology can solve environmental problems without requiring major lifestyle changes. They favor geoengineering solutions (such as Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS), ocean fertilization, or solar radiation management), the rapid development of large-scale renewable energy infrastructure, and transition to nuclear power.

In practice, national mitigation portfolios are often a mix of these strategies, but the dominant EVS of a government or society will dictate which methods receive funding and political support.

評分準則

Award 1 mark for each clear, well-supported point explaining how an EVS influences mitigation choices, up to a maximum of 7 marks.
- Ecocentric approach (max 3 marks):
* Focuses on reducing resource use and altering human lifestyles (1m).
* Advocates for small-scale, decentralized renewable energy systems (1m).
* Emphasizes conservation and restoration of natural ecosystems/carbon sinks (e.g., rewilding, reforestation) (1m).
- Anthropocentric approach (max 3 marks):
* Focuses on collective human management, governance, and policy (1m).
* Advocates for economic incentives/disincentives, such as carbon taxes or cap-and-trade markets (1m).
* Promotes international agreements, national legislation, and public education to shift behavior (1m).
- Technocentric approach (max 3 marks):
* Relies on technology and market innovation to mitigate emissions without sacrificing economic growth (1m).
* Advocates for geoengineering solutions (e.g., carbon capture and storage (CCS) or solar radiation management) (1m).
* Favors large-scale technological alternatives, such as nuclear power or major grid-scale renewable projects (1m).
Note: Accept alternative valid explanations of EVS-driven mitigation. To achieve full marks, at least two different EVSs must be discussed.
題目 4 · essay
7 分
Explain how the extraction and use of unconventional fossil fuels (such as shale gas or tar sands) affect energy security but present significant environmental challenges.
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解題

Unconventional fossil fuels, such as shale gas (extracted via hydraulic fracturing or fracking) and tar sands (extracted via open-pit mining or steam injection), play a significant role in modern energy dynamics.

Positive Impacts on Energy Security:
1. Increased Domestic Reserves: Exploitation of these resources increases a nation's domestic fossil fuel reserves, reducing reliance on foreign energy imports and geopolitical vulnerability.
2. Diversification of Energy Supply: Incorporating unconventional fossil fuels diversifies the energy mix, making the energy grid more resilient to disruptions in conventional supply lines.
3. Price Stability: Increasing the global and national supply of gas or oil can lower energy costs, making energy more affordable and accessible to industries and households, thereby strengthening national economic security.

Environmental Challenges:
4. High Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The extraction processes for unconventional fuels are highly energy-intensive, resulting in a higher carbon footprint per unit of energy produced compared to conventional fossil fuels. Furthermore, their combustion releases large quantities of CO2, exacerbating climate change.
5. Water Contamination and Depletion: Fracking requires massive volumes of water mixed with toxic chemicals, which can contaminate local groundwater aquifers through leaks or poor wastewater management. Tar sands extraction also generates vast, toxic tailings ponds.
6. Habitat Destruction: Tar sands extraction often involves large-scale strip mining, which leads to extensive deforestation (e.g., in the Canadian boreal forest), severe habitat fragmentation, and loss of local biodiversity.
7. Induced Seismic Activity: The high-pressure injection of fracking wastewater into deep disposal wells has been linked to increased seismic activity and minor earthquakes in surrounding regions.

評分準則

Award 1 mark for each valid explanation of how unconventional fossil fuel extraction impacts energy security or poses environmental challenges, up to a maximum of 7 marks (with a maximum of 4 marks for either energy security or environmental challenges alone to ensure balance).

Energy Security (max 4 marks):
- Increases domestic energy self-sufficiency / reduces dependence on politically unstable foreign energy exporters (1m).
- Provides a reliable baseload power supply compared to intermittent renewables (1m).
- Extends the lifespan of fossil fuel-based infrastructure and delays energy crises (1m).
- Can lower or stabilize energy prices, enhancing economic stability (1m).

Environmental Challenges (max 4 marks):
- Extraction processes are highly carbon-intensive, leading to greater lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions than conventional extraction (1m).
- High water consumption competes with other domestic or ecological water needs (1m).
- Groundwater contamination risks from chemical-laden fracking fluids or tailing pond leakages (1m).
- Extensive land disturbance/deforestation (especially with tar sands), leading to habitat destruction and biodiversity loss (1m).
- Wastewater disposal from fracking can trigger localized seismic activity/earthquakes (1m).

Note: Accept other valid environmental challenges or energy security benefits. Answers must address both aspects (energy security and environmental challenges) to score more than 4 marks.
題目 5 · Structured Essay - Part C (Evaluative)
9 分
With reference to specific examples, evaluate the use of technocentric solutions (such as geoengineering) compared to ecocentric solutions in addressing the global climate change crisis.
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解題

An effective response should address the following points:

  • Definitions/Concepts: Clearly define technocentric and ecocentric approaches in the context of climate change.
  • Technocentric Solutions: Evaluate geoengineering methods like Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) (e.g., Direct Air Capture, BECCS) and Solar Radiation Management (SRM) (e.g., stratospheric aerosol injection). Mention pros (fast action, allows economic transition) and cons (high cost, moral hazard, termination shock, does not stop ocean acidification for SRM).
  • Ecocentric Solutions: Evaluate lifestyle modifications, reduced fossil fuel consumption, and protection/restoration of natural carbon sinks (e.g., afforestation, wetland restoration). Mention pros (addresses root causes, low risk of unintended feedback loops, ecological co-benefits) and cons (difficult to coordinate globally, slow to implement, relies on voluntary behavioral change).
  • Conclusion: A reasoned conclusion synthesized from the arguments presented, suggesting that while ecocentric strategies are crucial for long-term sustainability, technocentric solutions may provide a necessary safety net to prevent catastrophic tipping points in the short term.

評分準則

Award up to 9 marks total based on the following bands:

[7–9 Marks]
- Discussion is balanced, detailed, and highly evaluative.
- Specific, relevant examples are used effectively to support arguments.
- Both technocentric and ecocentric perspectives are critically analyzed.
- A clear, well-reasoned conclusion/synthesis is provided based on the arguments.

[4–6 Marks]
- Discussion is structured but may lack depth in evaluation or rely on general statements.
- Some examples are used, but they may be generic or incomplete.
- One perspective (technocentric or ecocentric) may be argued more effectively than the other.
- A conclusion is present but may be weak or not fully supported by the essay.

[1–3 Marks]
- Discussion is descriptive rather than evaluative.
- Few or no relevant examples are provided.
- Shows limited understanding of the differences between technocentric and ecocentric climate strategies.
- No clear conclusion is drawn.
題目 6 · Structured Essay - Part C (Evaluative)
9 分
Evaluate the effectiveness of species-based conservation strategies compared to habitat-based conservation strategies for protecting global biodiversity.
查看答案詳解

解題

A high-quality response should evaluate both strategies using specific examples:

  • Species-based conservation strategies: Focus on individual species (e.g., CITES regulating international trade, captive breeding and reintroduction programs like the California Condor, and the use of flagship/umbrella species to raise funds). Use of seed banks and gene banks.
    • Strengths: High public appeal, targets critical immediate threats, helps recover species on the brink of extinction.
    • Limitations: High cost per species, does not address habitat loss (the root cause of extinction), taxonomic bias (favors charismatic megafauna over ecologically vital invertebrates/fungi).
  • Habitat-based conservation strategies: Focus on designating protected areas, national parks, and biosphere reserves. Incorporates designs like corridors, buffer zones, and the SLOSS (Single Large Or Several Small) debate.
    • Strengths: Protects entire trophic webs and ecological processes, preserves unknown or unstudied species, preserves genetic diversity in wild conditions.
    • Limitations: Can create 'paper parks' if poorly enforced, conflicts with local communities over resource access, vulnerable to climate-induced range shifts.
  • Conclusion: A balanced, synthesized conclusion showing that while habitat preservation is vital for long-term ecological integrity, species-specific interventions are often necessary as immediate emergency measures to prevent extinctions.

評分準則

Award up to 9 marks total based on the following bands:

[7–9 Marks]
- Detailed, balanced evaluation of both species-based and habitat-based strategies.
- Use of specific, relevant real-world examples (e.g., specific species, parks, or treaties like CITES).
- Clear assessment of strengths and limitations of both approaches.
- A well-reasoned and synthesized conclusion.

[4–6 Marks]
- Structured comparison of both strategies, but the evaluation may be superficial or unevenly balanced.
- Some examples are used, but they may lack specificity.
- The conclusion is present but lacks depth or is not fully supported by the preceding text.

[1–3 Marks]
- Mainly descriptive of conservation methods rather than evaluative.
- Few or no relevant examples are provided.
- Shows limited understanding of the differences between species-based and habitat-based approaches.
- Lacks a coherent conclusion.

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