Question

For this assignment, you will conduct research and evaluate how various roads that have been built in rainforests impact people and the Earth. Based on your research and evaluation, you will write a position paper expressing whether you are for or against the building of roads in rainforests. Even if you live far away from rainforests, these ecosystems are important to you—and to the entire planet. They are important to the well-being of our planet. Because rainforests are so large, their trees produce a lot of oxygen that ensures the survival of many species. They also take in huge amounts of carbon dioxide, which can reduce or maintain levels of global warming. Rainforests provide a home for many unique plants and animals. Additionally, the rainfall that rainforest receive helps maintain the water cycle for the entire planet. Rainforests are also a source for medicine and foods—the products of the rainforest sustain the people who live there. They are a great place to visit, too! So how might building roads in these crucial ecosystems affect the rainforests—and beyond? Search the Internet for resources about rainforests and the impact of building roads in these ecosystems. Also i. Food and products that come from the rainforest
ii. Effect of transportation on peoples who live in the rainforest as well as the effect of transportation on tourism
iii. Effect of deforestation on rainforests and on the entire planet

Answer 1

i.

There are many foods and products that we consume that come from rainforests. In terms of food, we can identify items such as banana, citrus, cassava, avocado, cashews, Brazil nuts, vanilla, sugar, coffee, tea and cocoa. In terms of products, many ingredients for medicine come from the plants of the rainforest, as well as materials such as rubber, oils, gums, and resins.

ii.

Transportation within the rainforest can help the people who live there. Roads can allow them to access schools, hospitals, markets and other communities. This can make their lives happier and safer. However, roads might be negative for the animals and indigenous communities that live in the area, as they can disrupt their environment and way of life.

Roads and means of transportation are usually positive for tourism, as these allow tourists to reach more places easily.

ii.

Deforestation on rainforests and other natural environments can have a devastating effect on the whole world. First, it leads to the loss of many animal and plant species, decreasing the biodiversity that our planet enjoys. It can also lead to the degradation of soil and to erosion, as trees and plants usually hold the ground in place and provide necessary nutrients to it. Deforestation also has a negative effect on climate change, as trees are able to absorbe an enormous amount of greenhouse gas emissions. Without them,  the greenhouse effect is amplified, worsening climate change.