Question

Which of the following are major causes of deforestation?

1. Shifting cultivation, also known as slash and burn agriculture, is a significant contributor to deforestation, clearing large forest areas annually.
2. The increasing demand for fuel wood due to population growth is a minor factor in deforestation.
3. The development of projects such as hydroelectric dams, large dams, road construction, and mining leads to massive destruction of forests.
4. Overgrazing by cattle contributes to the degradation of deforested lands.

• A. i, iii, iv
• B. None of these
• C. ii, iii
• D. All

Answer 1

Answer:

A. i, iii, iv

• Deforestation, the clearing of forests for other land uses, is driven by various human activities.

• Shifting cultivation, a traditional agricultural practice, involves clearing forest land by burning to create temporary fields.

• The increasing demand for fuel wood to meet the needs of a growing population is a major driver, especially in developing countries.

• Industries also contribute by demanding wood for products like furniture, paper, and railway sleepers.

• Large-scale development projects, including infrastructure and mining, necessitate the removal of vast forest areas.

• To accommodate a growing population, forests are often converted into permanent agricultural land and settlements.

• Furthermore, overgrazing can exacerbate the problem by degrading the remaining forest land and making it more vulnerable to erosion.