The living world: Tropical rainforests - Impacts Of Deforestation In Malaysia Flashcards
Soil erosion
Without tree roots binding the soil together wind and rain easily erodes the soil.
Loss of biodiversity
Destroying the ecosystem and the many habitats that exist on the ground and in the trees.
Climate change
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.
Economic development
Deforestation is mainly driven by profit. However deforestation may result in short-term gains it may also lead to long term losses.
Economic gains
. Development will lead to an increase in jobs.
. Companies will pay taxes to the government.
. Improved transport.
. Minerals such as gold are very valuable.
Economic losses
. Pollution of water results in water shortage.
. Fires can break out and destroy vast areas of forest.
. Rising temperatures could devastate farming.
Deforestation Case Study – Malaysia.
The rate of deforestation in Malaysia is increasing faster than any tropical country in the world.
Deforestation Case Study – Malaysia: causes
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.