Value of Tropical Rainforests Flashcards
What are goods and services in the context of the tropical rainforest?
Goods are directly obtained from the rainforest; services are benefits offered to people and the environment.
What foods originate from the tropical rainforest?
- Sugar
- Cocoa
- Bananas
- Cinnamon
- Vanilla
How many prescription drugs come from a plant source?
Over 120 prescription drugs
What percentage of the drugs used in the developed world are derived from rainforest plants?
Around 25%
What is the status of scientific testing on rainforest plants for medicinal qualities?
Less than 1% of rainforest plants have been tested.
What are some services supplied by the tropical rainforest for the environment?
- Nutrient recycling
- Protection from soil erosion
- Air purification
What is the role of the tropical rainforest in climate change?
It is one of the largest global carbon sinks, critical in tackling climate change.
What are the two requirements to protect the rainforest?
- Ensure it remains in a pristine state
- Use goods and services sustainably
What resources do tropical rainforests contain?
- Wood reserves
- Fruit and nuts
- Minerals (gold, bauxite, iron ore, silver)
- resources for medicines
What energy opportunity is provided by high rainfall levels in tropical rainforests?
Development of hydroelectric power
What employment opportunities do tropical rainforests offer?
Guides and stewards for tourism. Economic activities like mining, logging, farming, and construction
What percentage of the world’s fresh water comes from the Amazon Basin?
Twenty percent
What is the biodiversity significance of tropical rainforests?
Over fifty percent of the world’s known plants and animals exist in tropical rainforests.
What percentage of the world’s oxygen is generated in tropical rainforests?
Twenty-eight percent
How do rainforests contribute to the water cycle?
Moisture emitted from vegetation through transpiration
How do tropical rainforests help prevent soil erosion?
Roots bind soils and the canopy intercepts heavy rainfall.
True or False: Indigenous tribes depend on the rainforest for food, building materials, and fuel.
True
Fill in the blank: __________ are used to treat ailments by indigenous people.
Plant bark, resin, roots, leaves
What is vampire bat saliva used for?
Prevent heart attacks and dissolves blood clots
What are wild yams used for?
Cortisone used for birth control pills
