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The environment can also be endangered by other activities such as: - Overfishing - Mass tourism - Exploitation of energy resources - Deforestation - Desertification Examine the threat caused by one activity and in your answer: (i) Describe the problem caused - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 30 - 2006
Question 30
The environment can also be endangered by other activities such as: - Overfishing - Mass tourism - Exploitation of energy resources - Deforestation - Desertificatio... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The environment can also be endangered by other activities such as: - Overfishing - Mass tourism - Exploitation of energy resources - Deforestation - Desertification Examine the threat caused by one activity and in your answer: (i) Describe the problem caused - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 30 - 2006
Step 1
Describe the problem caused.
Answer
One major environmental threat caused by overfishing is the depletion of fish populations. Overfishing occurs when fish are caught at a rate faster than they can reproduce, leading to a significant decline in their numbers. This can disrupt the balance of marine ecosystems, resulting in a cascading effect on other marine species and their habitats.
As fish populations decline, predators that rely on them for food face starvation, leading to a further imbalance in the marine food web. Additionally, overfishing can destroy habitats, such as coral reefs, due to destructive fishing practices like bottom trawling. The loss of biodiversity not only threatens marine life but also impacts human communities that rely on fishing for their livelihoods.
Step 2
Outline one possible solution to this problem.
Answer
One effective solution to combat overfishing is the implementation of sustainable fishing practices. This involves establishing catch limits based on scientific assessments to ensure that fish populations can regenerate effectively.
Sustainable fishing includes:
- Monitoring fish populations: Regular assessments allow for the adjustment of catch limits in response to changes in fish populations.
- Promoting aquaculture: Encouraging fish farming can reduce pressure on wild stocks, providing a stable supply of fish without depleting natural resources.
- Regulating fishing gear: Using gear that minimizes bycatch (the capture of unintended species) helps protect marine biodiversity.
By adopting these practices, the fishing industry can maintain healthy fish populations and ensure long-term ecological balance.