Harmful Effects of Humans on the Environment

The picture on the left shows some of the effects of urbanisation on the environment. Use it to answer questions 1 and 2.

What do you predict will happen as more and more apartment blocks are built?

• The people living there will enjoy a better standard of living.

• Wildlife populations will thrive

• The streets will become less busy.

• The amount of solid waste will increase.

It is important that as urbanisation increases, plans are put in place to keep carbon emissions low.

Suggest ONE way the government of the city can keep the carbon emissions of its residents down.

Plants, insects, and animals are killed or lose their habitat.

Is this environmental problem a direct result of deforestation?

• Yes

• No

Water erosion increases, and the land becomes drier and drier.

Is this environmental problem a direct result of deforestation?

• Yes

• No

Local people experience heart disease and asthma attacks.

Is this environmental problem a direct result of deforestation?

• Yes

• No

The amount of carbon dioxide increases.

Is this environmental problem a direct result of deforestation?

• Yes

• No

The cups shown in the picture are made of plastic.

What is the INTENDED effect of these cups on the environment?

• To reduce solid waste because they can be reused

• To stop the hot drink from causing air pollution

• To increase solid waste because they are made from plastic

• To reduce the cost of a cup of coffee

In what ways can farming activity contribute to soil degradation? Choose TWO answers.

• Plant roots damage the structure of the soil.

• Use of pesticides and fertilizers increases toxins in the soil.

• Over-tilling allows soil to be washed or blown away.

• Vegetables excrete toxins that damage soil health.

Which order CORRECTLY ranks the causes of soil degradation from the smallest to the biggest cause?

• Farming activity

  Overgrazing

  Deforestation

  Other

• Other

  Farming activity

  Overgrazing

  Deforestation

• Other

  Farming activity

  Deforestation

  Overgrazing

• Overgrazing

  Deforestation

  Farming activity

  Other

Farmers in Jamaica are keen to avoid the degradation of the soil on their land.

Which of the following practices may be MOST effective in maintaining the health of their soil?

• Chop down the trees and shrubs on their land.

• Water their land more often.

• Till their land more often.

• Move their animals to different fields more often.