Question
SECTION A Answer one question from this section. Question 1 a. Define the following terms: Desertification. [1 mark] ii. Anthropogenic activities. [2 marks] iii. Eutrophication. [2 marks] b. Differentiate between point source and non-point source pollution. [3 marks] c. Identify and explain any four (4)causes of deforestation and discuss possible solutior to address the problem. Provide relevant examples. [12 marks
Solution
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(231 Votos)
Rafael
Veterano · Tutor por 12 anos
Resposta
a. Definitions:i. Desertification: Desertification refers to the process of land degradation in arid, semi-arid, and dry sub-humid areas, primarily caused by human activities and climatic variations, resulting in the loss of their productive capacity.ii. Anthropogenic activities: Anthropogenic activities refer to actions or processes that are the result of human intervention or influence. These activities can include industrial processes, agriculture, deforestation, pollution, and urbanization.iii. Eutrophication: Eutrophication is the process by which a body of water becomes enriched with nutrients, particularly phosphorus and nitrogen, leading to excessive growth of algae and other aquatic plants. This can result in oxygen depletion in the water, adversely affecting aquatic life.b. Point source vs. non-point source pollution:- Point source pollution: Point source pollution refers to the discharge of pollutants from a single, identifiable source, such as a pipe, ditch, or sewer outfall. Examples include industrial effluents, wastewater treatment plants, and storm drains.- Non-point source pollution: Non-point source pollution, on the other hand, is diffuse and does not have a single, identifiable source. It is often caused by runoff from land surfaces, carrying pollutants like fertilizers, pesticides, sediment, and other contaminants into water bodies. Examples include runoff from agricultural fields, urban areas, and construction sites.c. Causes of deforestation and possible solutions:1. Logging: Logging is a major cause of deforestation as trees are cut down to obtain timber for various purposes, including furniture, paper, and construction materials. Solution: Implement sustainable forestry practices, such as selective logging and replanting, to ensure that forests are managed responsibly and can regenerate.2. Agricultural expansion: The conversion of forests into agricultural land, particularly for large-scale commercial farming, is a significant driver of deforestation. Solution: Promote sustainable agriculture practices, such as agroforestry and organic farming, which can help reduce the need for clearing forests for agricultural purposes.3. Infrastructure development: The construction of roads, highways, dams, and other infrastructure projects often leads to deforestation as forests are cleared to make way for these developments. Solution: Implement strict environmental regulations and impact assessments to ensure that infrastructure projects are designed and implemented with minimal environmental impact.4. Fuelwood collection: In many developing countries, people rely on wood as a primary source of fuel for cooking and heating. Solution: Encourage the use of alternative, renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, or biogas, to reduce the reliance on wood and promote sustainable forest management practices.Overall, addressing deforestation requires a multifaceted approach that involves sustainable land use practices, conservation efforts, and the promotion of alternative energy sources.