Africa's Environmental Issues

What is desertification?

• The process of draining swamps and river deltas to create farmable areas of land.

• The process of irrigating desert areas and using technology to make deserts farmable.

• The expansion of deserts into regions that were previously a different biome.

• The transformation of an economy from agricultural to industrial due to a lack of farmland.

Water distribution causes many issues in Africa. What is the majority of fresh water in Africa used for?

• drinking

• farming

• fishing

• washing

Which region in Africa is MOST negatively affected by deforestation?

• southern Africa

• central Africa

• western Africa

• northern Africa

What trend has caused the GREATEST increase in deforestation in Africa?

• slowing economic development

• slowing industrial development

• increasing precipitation levels

• increasing population levels

What are the main causes of desertification in Africa? Select all that apply.

• overgrazing by livestock

• vehicle exhaust

• industrial emissions

• widespread drought

• underground mining

What are the main causes of desertification in Africa? Select all that apply.

• overgrazing by livestock

• vehicle exhaust

• industrial emissions

• widespread drought

• underground mining

How does water pollution affect the African economy?

• Many workers have emigrated to regions with less pollution.

• It restricts where manufacturers are able to build factories.

• It reduces crop production which in turn affects trade.

• It causes countries to restrict the sale of automobiles.

Why do farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa utilize slash-and-burn agriculture?

• to improve soil quality

• to prevent pest infestations

• to minimize air pollution

• to reduce labor needs

What is one negative impact of deforestation in Africa?

• a decrease in precipitation

• an increase in acid rain

• a loss of biodiversity

• a rise in population

What is the MAIN cause of deforestation in Africa?

• acid rain

• vehicle exhaust

• commercial logging

• industrial emissions