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Biomes are altered by human activity - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 18 - 2019
Question 18
Biomes are altered by human activity. Discuss.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Biomes are altered by human activity - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 18 - 2019
Step 1
Identifying aspects of human activity
Answer
Human activities can have significant impacts on biomes around the world. Three critical aspects through which human activity alters biomes include: deforestation, urbanization, and climate change.
Deforestation refers to the large-scale removal of forested areas, which disrupts habitats, reduces biodiversity, and alters local climates.
Urbanization involves the expansion of urban areas into natural landscapes, leading to habitat loss, increased pollution, and changes in local ecosystems.
Climate change, largely driven by human activities such as fossil fuel consumption and industrial processes, induces shifts in biome characteristics, affecting species distribution and ecosystem functions.
Step 2
Discussing deforestation
Answer
Deforestation is one of the most pressing issues impacting biomes today. This action removes trees that are vital for maintaining the ecological balance, resulting in habitat fragmentation. The loss of forests contributes to soil erosion and decreased air quality, and it significantly affects rainfall patterns. For instance, in the Amazon rainforest, extensive logging has led to not only the loss of plant and animal species but also altered precipitation regimes, which can further exacerbate the effects of climate change.
Step 3
Discussing urbanization
Answer
Urbanization transforms land use and leads to the development of cities and infrastructure. This process often encroaches on natural habitats, leading to biodiversity loss as species struggle to adapt to new urban environments. Increased impervious surfaces cause runoff issues, while pollution from urban areas can affect nearby water bodies and soils. For example, coastal wetlands are often drained for urban development, affecting the biome’s ability to support wildlife and act as natural buffers against storms.
Step 4
Discussing climate change
Answer
Climate change impacts are increasingly evident in various biomes. Rising temperatures affect species distribution, forcing many to migrate to cooler areas or face extinction. In polar regions, melting ice impacts the ecosystems reliant on it, while in tropical regions, changing rainfall patterns can lead to droughts or flooding, affecting plant and animal life. The phenology of species, such as flowering times and migration patterns, is also altered, disrupting the food chain and ecological interactions.
Step 5
Coherence of arguments
Answer
The discussion above demonstrates a clear understanding of how different human activities alter biomes. Each aspect is interlinked, showcasing the complex relationship between these activities and their impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem health. The arguments are supported by relevant examples, illustrating the vulnerabilities of various biomes to human-induced changes. This holistic view underscores the critical need for sustainable practices to mitigate negative impacts on our planet's diverse environments.