Q. Describing the distribution of rubber producing countries, indicate the major environmental issues faced by them. [250 Words, 15 Marks] 2022
Answer:
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Approach: Introduction
Body
Conclusion
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Introduction:
Natural rubber is a
polymer of isoprene, an organic compound. Thailand is the largest producer of
rubber in the world followed by Indonesia, Vietnam, Brazil, India and China.
These nations are located in tropical regions. Their climate is
warm and humid which is ideal for growing rubber trees.
Major environmental
issues faced by these country:
- Deforestation: The
rubber industry has led to the conversion of large areas of natural
forests into rubber plantations. This deforestation has caused the loss of
biodiversity and habitats of many species, contributing to the decline of
their populations. E.g Brazil
- Soil degradation: The
cultivation of rubber trees on a large scale has led to soil degradation,
causing a decline in soil fertility and productivity. The extensive use of
pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers has also polluted soil and water
resources. E.g Venezuela.
- Water pollution: The rubber industry uses significant amounts of water
for irrigation, which can lead to the depletion of water resources and the
pollution of water bodies due to the discharge of agrochemicals. E.g Peru
- Climate change: The
rubber industry contributes to climate change by releasing greenhouse
gasses, primarily through deforestation, land-use change, and the use of
fossil fuels for transportation. E.g Brazil
- Labor and human rights issues: The rubber industry is associated with labor and
human rights violations, including exploitation of workers, child labor,
and land grabbing from indigenous communities.
Conclusion:
The rubber industry is
an important economic sector for several countries, but it is associated with
significant environmental issues. WWF’s goal is to have the
majority of companies that produce and use rubber commit to sustainably and
ethically produced rubber.
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