Managing Resources Oil is a nonrenewable resource, yet it is the most widely used energy source today. Burning fossil fuels creates greenhouse gases, which contribute to a rise in air temperature. This climate change negatively affects the environment by decreasing the amount of rainfall and causing a rise in sea level, threatening coastal populations and marine ecology. People and Their Environment: the Arabian Peninsula

Human Impact The rapidly growing population in the subregion is dramatically increasing the demand on already scarce water resources. Political instability contributes to the problem as corrupt and weak governments do not enact solutions, while profiteers extract precious water for personal gain without regard to the environment. Ongoing desertification is taking a heavy toll on vegetation, resulting in soil erosion. People and Their Environment: the Arabian Peninsula

Addressing the Issues Governmental subsidies to lower water costs have resulted in high water consumption rates despite the scant water resources in the region. Desalination is being used to address some water needs, but it alone cannot satisfy demand; it also has negative environmental impacts. Changes in agricultural practices are being encouraged to meet the demand for food, thereby decreasing the amount of water needed for farming, dairy, and meat production. People and Their Environment: the Arabian Peninsula