The living world: Tropical rainforests - Impacts Of Deforestation In Malaysia

Question 1

Soil erosion

Answer 1

Without tree roots binding the soil together wind and rain easily erodes the soil.

Question 2

Loss of biodiversity

Answer 2

Destroying the ecosystem and the many habitats that exist on the ground and in the trees.

Question 3

Climate change

Answer 3

During photosynthesis, trees absorb CO2 and emit oxygen. By absorbing CO2 trees store the carbon and reduce the rate of global warming. Deforestation reduces moisture in the air resulting in a drier climate.

Question 4

Economic development

Answer 4

Deforestation is mainly driven by profit. However deforestation may result in short-term gains it may also lead to long term losses.

Question 5

Economic gains

Answer 5

. Development will lead to an increase in jobs.
. Companies will pay taxes to the government.
. Improved transport.
. Minerals such as gold are very valuable.

Question 6

Economic losses

Answer 6

. Pollution of water results in water shortage.
. Fires can break out and destroy vast areas of forest.
. Rising temperatures could devastate farming.

Question 7

Deforestation Case Study – Malaysia.

Answer 7

The rate of deforestation in Malaysia is increasing faster than any tropical country in the world.

Question 8

Deforestation Case Study – Malaysia: causes

Answer 8

Logging – Malaysia became the world’s largest exporter of tropical wood in the 1980s.
-Energy development – Bakun Dam generates electricity, the reservoir flooded 700km2 of forests and farmland.