The planning department has received two proposals for an industrial estate outside Multan. One relies on conventional electricity and sends untreated waste...
Question 1 Report
The planning department has received two proposals for an industrial estate outside Multan. One relies on conventional electricity and sends untreated wastewater to a drain. The other includes rooftop solar panels, water recycling, efficient machinery and a shared treatment plant. Investors ask whether the higher initial cost is worthwhile for Pakistan's long-term economic development.
(a) Identify one feature of the second proposal that reduces freshwater demand. [1]
(b) Describe two environmental advantages of a shared treatment plant. [2]
(c) Analyse three reasons why the second proposal could be economically sustainable over time. [3]
(d) Evaluate which proposal the planning department should approve. Support your answer with two developed reasons. [2]
Answer Details
(a) Water recycling / reuse of treated water [1]. (b) Any two: removes pollutants before wastewater reaches drains or rivers [1]; protects aquatic ecosystems and groundwater [1]; reduces health risks from contaminated water [1]; allows monitoring of pollution in one facility [1]. (c) Any three: solar panels can lower future electricity bills [1]; efficient machinery uses less energy and reduces production costs [1]; recycled water reduces water charges and supply risk [1]; compliance with environmental rules may avoid fines or closures [1]; cleaner production can improve access to export markets [1]. (d) Approve the second proposal [1] because its higher initial cost is balanced by lower operating costs and reduced risks of pollution, water shortage and future regulation [1].
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