Human Activity and Deforestation in the Rainforest

Flashcards covering the causes and impacts of human activities on the rainforest, primarily focusing on deforestation, overhunting, and climate change.

What are the primary uses of palm oil?

Palm oil is used in food products such as cooking oil, shortening, margarine, snack foods, and personal care products.

What is deforestation?

Deforestation is the clearing and destruction of forests, which can lead to soil erosion.

What has increased Japan's demand regarding hardwood?

Japan’s demand for hardwood grown in Amazonia has risen to 11 million m³ a year.

What is the impact of hydro-electric power (HEP) on the rainforest?

HEP involves clearing rainforest to create reservoirs which often flood large areas of cleared forest.

What is overhunting?

Overhunting refers to indigenous people hunting and fishing for food, with demand increasing as population rises, leading to commercialization of bushmeat.

What is poaching and why is it harmful?

Poaching involves killing wild animals illegally for valuables like skins and tusks, threatening species survival.

How does climate change affect rainforests?

Climate change causes temperature increases and reduced rainfall that lead to drought and a higher risk of forest fires.

Describe one social impact of mining in the rainforest.

Mining can create jobs but it can also push locals off their land and increase the risk of disease.

What is the social effect of population pressures in the Amazon rainforest?

Population pressures lead to more people seeking land, contributing to deforestation.

What role do TNCs like McDonald's play in rainforest damage?

TNCs like McDonald's clear land for cattle ranching to produce fast food, contributing to deforestation.