21/04/2024
Geography
Form 2 essay
Explain four negative effects of population increase on Malawian natural resources
*Deforestation:** Population increase often leads to higher demand for agricultural land and fuelwood, resulting in extensive deforestation. This can disrupt ecosystems, reduce biodiversity, and lead to soil erosion and loss of wildlife habitats.
**Water Scarcity:** A growing population puts pressure on water resources for drinking, agriculture, and industry. In Malawi, this can exacerbate water scarcity issues, leading to competition between sectors and compromising the availability of clean water for both humans and ecosystems.
*Soil Degradation:** Intensive agriculture to support a larger population can lead to soil degradation through overuse of fertilizers, pesticides, and unsustainable farming practices. This can decrease soil fertility, reduce crop yields over time, and contribute to land degradation.
**Waste Pollution:** Increased population often corresponds with higher waste generation, including plastic pollution, organic waste, and industrial pollutants. Improper waste management can contaminate soil, water bodies, and air, posing health risks to humans and wildlife and degrading the quality of natural resources.