Theory question 207
Environmental Hazards and ConservationWrite explanatory notes on each of the following (a) deforestation (b) drought (c) pollution
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(a) Deforestation: removal of forest cover for farming, lumbering, fuel, mining, roads and settlements without replanting; effects – soil erosion, loss of timber and wildlife, flooding, climate change, desertification; control – afforestation, forest reserves, controlled felling, forest guards
(b) Drought: a long period of very low or no rainfall with high temperatures; causes crop failure, death of livestock, famine, water shortage, migration and desert encroachment; control – irrigation, dams and wells, drought-resistant crops, mulching, shelter belts
(c) Pollution: release of harmful substances into air, water or land (gas flaring, vehicle exhaust, sewage, industrial effluent, oil spills, refuse, noise); effects – diseases, death of fish and crops, acid rain, poor visibility; control – laws and fines, waste treatment, proper disposal, public education
Define, give causes/effects and control for each.