Deforestation

Impacts of deforestation(Economic development)

+ Mining, farming and logging creates employment and tax income for

government.

- The loss of biodiversity will reduce tourism.

Impacts of deforestation(Soil erosion)

- Once the land is exposed by deforestation, the soil is more vulnerable to rain.

- With no roots to bind soil together, soil can easily wash away.

Impacts of deforestation(Climate Change)

-Trees are carbon ‘sinks’. With greater deforestation comes more greenhouse emissions in the atmosphere.

-When trees are burnt, they release more carbon in the atmosphere.

Causes of deforestation

Tourism- Mass tourism is resulting in the building of hotels in extremely vulnerable areas.

Road Building- Roads are needed to bring supplies and provide access to new mining areas, settlements and energy projects.In Malaysia, logging companies use an extensive network of roads for heavy machinery and to transport wood.

Logging- Timber is harvested to create commercial items such as furniture and paper.

Sustainability for the Rainforest

Possible strategies include:

• Agro-forestry - Growing trees and crops at the same time. It prevents soil erosion and the crops benefit from the nutrients.

• Selective logging - Trees are only felled when they reach a particular height.

• Education - Ensuring those people understand the consequences of deforestation

Afforestation - If trees are cut down, they are replaced.