Assignment number: 03
Year: 2023 (SEMESTER 1)
PREVIEW:
Three environmental issues faced by South African citizens are:
Water Scarcity: South Africa experiences frequent droughts and water
scarcity, particularly in the Western Cape and other regions. This issue is
exacerbated by climate change, population growth, inefficient water
management, and inadequate infrastructure. The limited availability of
water affects agriculture, industries, and communities' access to clean
drinking water.
LOLA JACOBS ASSIGNMENTS 0618151315
,ASSESSMENT 03: ELECTIVE
ASSESSMENT 03
MARKS: 100
This assessment is ELECTIVE and contributes 25% to your final mark for
this module.
Answer ALL the questions.
Open date: 26 June 2023, 08:00.
Due date: 2 August 2023, 18:00.
ACTIVITY 1
1.1 Environmental education (EE) processes need to take into consideration the history
and context behind certain environmental issues and their implications for
communities and their lived context.
1.1.1 State any three environmental issues faced by the South African
citizens.
(3)
1.1.2 Discuss the implications of the above-mentioned environmental
challenges.
(6)
1.1.3 Name at least one softwood tree species.
1.1.1 Three environmental issues faced by South African citizens are:
Water Scarcity: South Africa experiences frequent droughts and water
scarcity, particularly in the Western Cape and other regions. This issue is
exacerbated by climate change, population growth, inefficient water
management, and inadequate infrastructure. The limited availability of
water affects agriculture, industries, and communities' access to clean
drinking water.
LOLA JACOBS ASSIGNMENTS 0618151315
, Land Degradation: Land degradation is a significant environmental issue
in South Africa, primarily due to unsustainable agricultural practices,
deforestation, mining activities, and urbanization. Overgrazing, soil
erosion, and desertification are some of the consequences of land
degradation, leading to reduced agricultural productivity, loss of
biodiversity, and increased vulnerability to climate change.
Air Pollution: Air pollution is a pressing concern in many urban areas of
South Africa, particularly in major cities like Johannesburg and Durban.
Industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust fumes, burning of fossil fuels, and
indoor air pollution from household cooking and heating contribute to
poor air quality. This pollution negatively impacts human health, causing
respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and other ailments.
1.1.2 The implications of the above-mentioned environmental challenges are:
Economic Impact: Environmental challenges such as water scarcity, land
degradation, and air pollution have significant economic implications.
Water scarcity affects agricultural productivity, leading to reduced crop
yields and potential food shortages. Land degradation reduces the
suitability of land for farming and can lead to the displacement of
communities dependent on agriculture. Air pollution affects human
health, leading to increased healthcare costs and decreased productivity.
Social Consequences: Environmental challenges can exacerbate social
inequalities and negatively affect communities. Water scarcity can
disproportionately impact marginalized communities who may have
limited access to clean water, exacerbating socio-economic disparities.
Land degradation can lead to the displacement of communities and loss
of livelihoods, particularly among vulnerable groups. Air pollution can
affect the quality of life, especially for those living in urban areas with
high levels of pollution.
Ecological Impacts: These environmental challenges also have significant
ecological implications. Water scarcity and land degradation can disrupt
ecosystems, leading to the loss of biodiversity and habitat destruction.
Air pollution can harm plant and animal species, affecting their
LOLA JACOBS ASSIGNMENTS 0618151315