Final answer:
Developed countries consume a high percentage of global resources, with historical data showing the U.S. once used a substantial amount of the world's natural gas and petroleum. The 24% of the world's affluent population are responsible for a large share of resource consumption.
Step-by-step explanation:
The residents of developed countries consume a disproportionately high percentage of the world's resources. This includes various forms of energy such as natural gas and petroleum, as well as other necessities such as water for agriculture and industrial processes. For instance, while the United States represents only about 5% of the world's population, it has historically constituted over 20% of the world's energy consumption. Moreover, global consumption inequality indicates that 24% of the global population from high-income countries are responsible for a significant share of resource consumption. This showcases the disparities in resource use and the potential ecological ramifications if consumption rates in developing countries rise to match those of industrialized nations. In the era of the Industrial Revolution, the stark contrast in consumption led to increasing inequalities among nations, which persists to this day.