Conservation Challenges in Virunga

Veranga National Park, Africa's oldest and largest, is a UNESCO World Heritage site home to critically endangered mountain gorillas. Despite its protected status, the park faces threats from companies and governments seeking to exploit its resources. Park rangers face significant dangers, with 140 losing their lives in the past 20 years. The charcoal industry is a major contributor to habitat loss, but the Veranga Alliance is addressing this by providing alternatives and building infrastructure, including hydroelectric dams. Social outreach efforts aim to influence policy changes both locally and globally.

What is the significance of Virunga National Park in terms of conservation?

• It is home to the majority of the world's critically endangered mountain gorillas.

• It is a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its historical buildings.

• It is the smallest national park in Africa.

• It is the largest park in Europe.

What makes Virunga National Park a dangerous place for park rangers?

• The lack of proper equipment.

• The threat from companies and governments undermining conservation laws.

• The harsh weather conditions.

• The presence of wild animals.

How many park rangers have lost their lives in Virunga over the past 20 years?

• 140

• 200

• 100

• 50

What is the primary industry contributing to habitat loss in Virunga?

• Mining

• Charcoal

• Agriculture

• Tourism

What initiative is the Virunga Alliance taking to combat habitat loss?

• Building more roads

• Creating hydroelectric dams

• Expanding agricultural land

• Increasing tourism

What role does social outreach play in the conservation efforts of Virunga?

• It helps in building more infrastructure.

• It provides financial support to the park.

• It increases the number of tourists visiting the park.

• It can influence policy changes both locally and internationally.

Which regions could be impacted by the conservation efforts in Virunga?

• Only international communities

• Both the DRC and Congo

• Only the DRC

• Only local communities

What is the potential impact of policy changes on Virunga's conservation efforts?

• They can reduce the number of park rangers.

• They can change policies at home and abroad.

• They can lead to increased tourism.

• They can only affect local wildlife.