1. Biodiversity Loss

2. Case study task………

3. More than 50% of Earth’s rain forests have already been lost
Rain forests that once grew over % of the land on Earth now cover only about 6%
If current deforestation rates continue, they could disappear completely within the next 100 years.

4. Threats to the forest:
Population growth – people seek out new land to cultivate in the forest.
Logging for timber used in flooring and furniture
Power plants and other industries cut and burn trees to generate electricity.
The paper industry turns huge tracts of rain forest trees into pulp.
The cattle industry uses slash-and-burn techniques to clear ranch land.
Agriculture eg. soy industry or palm oil clear forests for cropland.
Mining operations clear forest to build roads and dig mines.
Governments and industry clear-cut forests to make way for roads.
Hydroelectric projects flood acres of rain forest.

5. What is biodiversity? Biodiversity means biological diversity.
Species diversity -
variety of animals and plants
Genetic diversity –
variations within species
Ecosystem diversity –
interdependence within species

6. Exam style question: "Destroying rainforest for economic gain is like burning a Renaissance painting to cook a meal." Discuss this statement, focusing upon the consequences of reduced biodiversity in tropical rainforests. [15 Marks]                  [Original quote by Edward O. Wilson]

7. Read pg
1. Write one point on the importance of the rainforest in these areas:
Biodiversity
Global climate
Rainfall generation
Soil degradation
Water quality
Industry
Health
Subsistence use
2. Create or find a diagram to show nutrient cycling in the rainforest. Describe and explain the process of nutrient recycling in the tropical rainforest

8. Why is rainforest biodiversity important to people?
Industrial uses
Ecological uses
Charcoal
Protect water supply
logging
Prevent floods and landslides
Gums, rubber, resins and oils
Control soil erosion
Tourism
Regulate climate eg. CO2 and O2 levels
Industrial chemicals
Habitat for animals and plants
Medicines
Genes for crops
Fodder for agriculture
Fruits and nuts
Rearing silk worms and bee keeping
Which of these uses are subsistence?
Which of these uses could be sustainable? Why?