Environmental Issues of Southwest Asia

Front

Why has access to water led to political conflicts in Southwest Asia?

Back

Because the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers flow through more than one country

Front

Which countries in Southwest Asia have major rivers that provide enough water for farming communities?

Back

Turkey and Iraq

Front

What is the problem with using underground aquifers and fossil water as a source of water?

Back

The amount of water they have is fixed and cannot be replaced once it is used up

Front

What is drip irrigation?

Back

A system where computers measure how much water each plant receives

Front

What is the drawback of desalination as a solution to water scarcity problems?

Back

It is very expensive and requires complex technology

Front

What has led to water pollution in Southwest Asia?

Back

The use of chemical fertilizers by farmers.

Front

What happens when chemical fertilizers run off into rivers and streams?

Back

They cause water pollution

Front

Why do many places in Southwest Asia that have been irrigated for years no longer produce anything?

Back

Because salts have built up in the soil

Front

What has led to the rapid growth of cities and towns in Southwest Asia?

Back

The rush to develop industry in the region

Front

What is the main reason for the development of dams along the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers?

Back

To create reservoirs for irrigation and hydroelectric power