Desertification Flashcards
What is Desertification?
The process of land turning into desert as the quality of the soil declines over time.
Why does Population growth result in Desertification?
The population in some desert areas is increasing. In places where there are developments in mining and tourism, people are attracted by jobs. An increased population is putting greater pressure on the environment for resources such as wood and water.
Why does removal of wood result in Desertification?
In developing countries, people use wood for cooking. As the population in desert areas increases, there is a greater need for fuel wood. When the land is cleared of trees, the roots of the trees no longer hold the soil together so it is more vulnerable to soil erosion.
Why does overgrazing result in Desertification?
An increasing population results in larger desert areas being farmed. Sheep, cattle and goats are overgrazing the vegetation. This leaves the soil exposed to erosion.
Why does soil erosion result in Desertification?
This is made worse by overgrazing and the removal of wood. Population growth is the primary cause of soil erosion.
Why does climate change result in Desertification?
The global climate is getting warmer. In desert regions conditions are not only getting warmer but drier too. On average there is less rain now in desert regions than there was 50 years ago.
How does planting more trees reduce desertification?
The roots of trees hold the soil together and help to reduce soil erosion from wind and rain.
How does improving the quality of the soil reduce desertification?
This can be managed by encouraging people to reduce the number of grazing animals they have and grow crops instead. The animal manure can be used to fertilize the crops grown. Growing crops in this way can improve the quality of the soil as it is held together by the roots of plants and protected from erosion. This type of farming is more sustainable.
How does water management reduce desertification?
Water can be stored in earth dams in the wet season and used to irrigate crops during the dry season. This is an example of using appropriate technology to manage water supplies in the desert environment.
