Identify the country shown on the graph with the lowest percentage of forest cover.

Distinguish between forest cover and biodiversity.

Suggest two reasons why forest cover in some countries has increased in recent years.

Reason 1:

Reason 2:

Explain two consequences of the reduction of biodiversity in some tropical rainforests.

Consequence 1:

Consequence 2:

Mexico

• forest cover is the proportion/percentage/area of a region/country [1]
• biodiversity refers to all the different kinds of living organisms within a given area including plants, animals, fungi, and other living things [1] (or alternatively biodiversity is the existence of a wide variety of plant and animal species living in their natural environment [1]).

In each case, award [1] for a distinct, valid reason, and [1] for development/exemplification.

There are two approaches that could be taken to answer this question – strategic reasons that explain the increase in forest cover, and operational reasons. Either approach, or a combination of the two, is acceptable.

Possible strategic approaches could include:

• Trees have been planted [1] to create new areas of woodland, including [1] commercial forestry plantations (reforestation) [1].
• The introduction of a moratorium (or strict control) on forest clearance [1], which allows natural forest regrowth to occur faster than clearance. [1]
• Designation of protected areas such as National Parks [1], such as those of Yunan Province, China, provide protection and allow the expansion of forests [1].

Possible operational approaches could include:

• conservation to protect wildlife
• prevent soil erosion
• increase the carbon sink
• encourage tourism
• disaster prevention in mountainous areas
• less land required for farming.

In each case, award [1] for a valid consequence and [1] for explanation/exemplification.

Possible consequences include:

• loss of biomedical resources (actual or potential)
• reduced genetic diversity
• adverse impacts on way of life for some indigenous peoples
• adverse impacts on regional water and/or food supplies
• extinction of species
• loss of natural resources
• reduction in value for ecotourism.

For example:
Loss of potential biomedical resources [1], with resultant adverse impacts for population and economy [1].

Less genetic diversity [1] leading to loss of ecological resilience when coping with climate change [1].