9.4 Managing forests

Question 1

Reasons for the need for the
sustainable management of forests

Answer 1

• forests act as carbon sinks and mature forests act as carbon stores
• role in water cycle
• prevention of soil erosion
• biodiversity as a genetic resource
• food, medicine and industrial raw materials
• ecotourism

Question 2

Growing Forests as Carbon Sinks and Mature Forests as Carbon Stores

Answer 2

• Young, growing forests absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere, acting as carbon sinks.
• Mature forests store vast amounts of carbon in their biomass and soil, preventing it from entering the atmosphere.
  Importance: Helps combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas levels.

Question 3

role in water cycle

Answer 3

• Forests add water to the atmosphere during transpiration, leading to formation of clouds, eventually releasing it by precipitation.
• Importance: Ensures water availability for ecosystems and human use while preventing droughts and floods.
• During deforestation, this process is reduced and local droughts are caused in the area.

Question 4

prevention of soil erosion

Answer 4

• By intercepting rain, forests reduce heavy rainfall on the forest floor.
• Debris, such as tree leaves on the floor of the forest, slows run-off.
• Roots of trees hold soil in place.

Question 5

Provision of Food, Medicine, and Industrial Raw Materials

Answer 5

Forests supply fruits, nuts, and medicinal plants, as well as timber, rubber, and other industrial resources.

Question 6

Ecotourism

Answer 6

• Forests attract tourists seeking nature experiences, providing income for local communities and incentivizing conservation.
• Visitors travel with the main aim of appreciating its natural beauty.