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Discuss the human and natural causes of desertification and of deforestation. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 15 - 2016
Question 15
Discuss the human and natural causes of desertification and of deforestation.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Discuss the human and natural causes of desertification and of deforestation. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 15 - 2016
Step 1
Human Causes of Desertification
Answer
Human activities are significant contributors to desertification. Key factors include:
- Overgrazing: Excessive grazing by livestock can deplete plant cover, leading to soil erosion.
- Deforestation: The removal of trees reduces the soil's stability and moisture retention, exacerbating land degradation.
- Agricultural Practices: Unsustainable farming methods, including monoculture and the excessive use of chemical fertilizers, degrade soil health and structure.
Step 2
Natural Causes of Desertification
Answer
Natural factors also contribute to desertification, including:
- Climate Change: Variations in rainfall and temperature can alter ecosystems, making them more susceptible to desertification.
- Droughts: Prolonged dry periods can severely affect vegetation cover and soil quality.
- Soil Erosion: Natural processes, such as wind and water erosion, can strip away topsoil, reducing land productivity.
Step 3
Human Causes of Deforestation
Answer
Deforestation arises primarily from human actions, such as:
- Industrial Logging: The demand for timber and wood products leads to large-scale tree removal.
- Urban Expansion: As cities grow, forests are often cleared for housing and infrastructure.
- Agricultural Expansion: The conversion of forests into agricultural land for crops and livestock is a significant driver of deforestation.
Step 4
Natural Causes of Deforestation
Answer
While human actions dominate, natural processes also result in deforestation:
- Wildfires: Natural wildfires, often exacerbated by dry conditions, can decimate large forest areas.
- Pests and Diseases: Infestations can weaken trees and lead to widespread forest loss.
- Climate Factors: Severe storms and hurricanes can uproot large swathes of trees, causing significant deforestation.