Chapter 7: Problem 10

What is deforestation, and what factors are primarily responsible for deforestation of the tropics?

Short Answer

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Deforestation is the process of clearing out forests, primarily for agricultural, logging, urbanisation, and mining purposes. The main factors for deforestation in the tropics are agriculture (to make space for farming and livestock grazing), logging (for timber and fuel), urbanisation, infrastructure development, and mining.

Step by step solution

Define Deforestation

Deforestation is the process of clearing, destroying, or removing the trees and forests, often to make space for farming and urban development. It is an environmental concern because it can result in biodiversity loss, reduced carbon capture (contributing to global warming), and altered weather patterns.

Cause 1: Agriculture

One of the primary drivers of deforestation, especially in the tropics, is agriculture. Farmers chop down trees to provide more room for planting crops, or for grazing livestock. This is often seen in countries that rely heavily on agriculture for their economy.

Cause 2: Logging

Logging, or the cutting down of trees for timber and fuel, also contributes to deforestation. In tropical regions, precious woods like teak and mahogany are often logged unsustainably due to high global demand.

Cause 3: Urbanisation and Infrastructure Development

Another key cause is urbanisation and infrastructure development. As populations grow and the demand for housing and infrastructure increases, forests are often cut down to aid in this development.

Cause 4: Mining

Finally, mining activities also contribute to deforestation in the tropics. When mining areas are created, forests are cleared out, destroying the habitats of numerous species.

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What is deforestation, and what factors are primarily responsible for deforestation of the tropics?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Define Deforestation

Cause 1: Agriculture

Cause 2: Logging

Cause 3: Urbanisation and Infrastructure Development

Cause 4: Mining

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