Abstract. Slash-and-burn agroecosystems are important to rural poor and indigenous peoples in the developing world. Ecologically sound slash-and-burn agriculture is sustainable because it does not depend upon outside inputs based on fossil energy for fertilizers, pesticides and irrigation.
Does slash-and-burn damage the environment?
Although traditional practices generally contributed few greenhouse gases because of their scale, modern slash-and-burn techniques are a significant source of carbon dioxide emissions, especially when used to initiate permanent deforestation.
Is slash-and-burn effective?
It is burned here because the burning process releases nutrients which then fertilize the soil. So, the slash and burn process successfully clears land for agriculture and introduces fertilizing nutrients into the soil, leaving it in excellent condition to grow crops.
What are the pros of slash and burn agriculture?
The following are some of the positives of slash and burn agriculture: It allows farming to be conducted in regions that is normally not associated with this practice. It helps to temporarily boost the fertility of a region. It provides communities with a source of income and food during uncertain times.
What is the main disadvantage of slash-and-burn farming?
Disadvantages: The major disadvantage of this method is deforestation. Though the ashes may increases the soil fertility, it may remain fertile for only a short span of time. After which the farmer has to search a new land, uproot the trees and proceed with farming.
What are sustainable methods of agriculture that can replace slash and burn?
Another option is to combine agriculture with animal husbandry. The waste from the animals can be used as fertilizer to sustain agriculture. The use of fertilizer both natural and artificial sources could replace the use of burning the trees to create fertile fields in the forest for agriculture.
Did the Romans use slash and burn?
Slash-and-burn agriculture, associated with lower populations than the Roman period, can be at least as responsible for deforestation and soil erosion as Roman agriculture.
Why do farmers burn fields?
Agricultural burning helps farmers remove crop residues left in the field after harvesting grains, such as hay and rice. Farmers also use agricultural burning for removal of orchard and vineyard prunings and trees. Burning also helps remove weeds, prevent disease and control pests.
Why did the Incas use terraces to farm?
The Incas had to create flat land to farm since they lived in the mountains. They did this by creating terraces. Terraces were carved steps of land in the mountainside. Not only did this genius way of farming help them grow crops, it was also great for irrigation and preventing drought.
How does slash and burn affect biodiversity?
Biodiversity Loss: When plots of land area are cleared, the various plants and animals that lived there are swept away. If a particular area is the only one that holds a particular species, slashing and burning could result in extinction for that species.