Question 1: Define 'biodiversity' and explain its significance in tropical rainforests.

Answer: Biodiversity refers to the variety of plant and animal species in an ecosystem. It is significant because it contributes to ecosystem stability, resilience, and provides resources for local communities.

Question 2: What is 'sustainable management' in the context of tropical rainforests?

Answer: Sustainable management involves using rainforest resources in a way that meets current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, balancing conservation with economic activity.

Question 3: Name two methods used to sustainably manage tropical rainforests.

Answer: Selective logging and ecotourism.

Question 4: Explain the term 'carbon sequestration' and its relevance to rainforests.

Answer: Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide. Rainforests play a key role by absorbing CO2, helping to mitigate climate change.

Question 5: What is 'deforestation' and what are its main causes in the Amazon rainforest?

Answer: Deforestation is the removal of forest cover. In the Amazon, main causes include logging, agriculture (like cattle ranching), infrastructure development, and mining.

Question 1: Which country has the largest area of tropical rainforest?

Answer: Brazil

Question 2: Name the main ecosystem services provided by tropical rainforests.

Answer: Provision of resources (timber, medicine), climate regulation, biodiversity habitats, water cycle regulation.

Question 3: What is the primary reason for deforestation in Borneo?

Answer: Logging and palm oil plantations

Question 4: Describe the role of ecotourism in sustainable rainforest management.

Answer: Ecotourism promotes conservation by generating income for local communities while encouraging environmentally responsible travel and activities that do not harm the rainforest.

Question 1: Based on the case study, identify two sustainable management strategies implemented in the Amazon rainforest.

Answer: Community forestry initiatives that involve local people in managing resources, and protected areas that restrict logging and land conversion.

Question 2: Explain how the 'Brazilian Forest Code' influences rainforest conservation efforts.

Answer: The Brazilian Forest Code requires landowners to preserve a percentage of their land as forest, promoting reforestation and reducing illegal logging, thus aiding conservation.

Question 3: Assess the impact of international funding on rainforest conservation projects in Borneo.

Answer: International funding provides essential financial resources for protected areas, supports community projects, and promotes sustainable practices, although dependency on external aid can pose challenges.

Question 1: Explain the main causes of deforestation in the Amazon rainforest.

Answer: Main causes include agricultural expansion (particularly cattle ranching and soy farming), logging, infrastructure development, and mining, driven by economic demand and government policies.

Question 2: Analyse the environmental impacts of illegal logging in tropical rainforests.

Answer: Illegal logging leads to habitat destruction, loss of biodiversity, soil erosion, disruption of water cycles, and contributes to climate change through increased carbon emissions.

Question 3: Explain why sustainable management is essential for the future of tropical rainforests.

Answer: Sustainable management ensures the preservation of biodiversity, climate regulation, and resources for future generations while supporting local economies and reducing environmental degradation.

Question 1: To what extent are current strategies effective in balancing rainforest conservation with economic development in countries like Brazil and Indonesia? Discuss both successes and challenges.

Answer: Current strategies such as protected areas, community forestry, and international funding have shown positive outcomes, including reduced illegal logging and improved local livelihoods. However, challenges remain, including enforcement issues, economic pressures for resource exploitation, and political conflicts. While some initiatives have succeeded in conserving biodiversity and reducing deforestation rates, efforts need to be scaled up and integrated with broader sustainable development policies to ensure long-term success.