Environmental Issues in Africa 7th Grade Social Studies

SS7G2 SS7G2: The student will discuss the environmental issues in Africa

SS7G2a SS7G2a: Explain how water pollution and the unequal distribution of water impacts irrigation, trade, industry, and drinking water.

Water Pollution in Africa Similar to Southern and Eastern Asia – It is mostly caused by industries dumping pollutants into the water Decreasing the amount of drinking water that is available Lack of safe drinking water has affected economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa

Water Distribution in Africa Not equally distributed throughout Africa Africa has 9.2% of the world’s freshwater

SS7G2b SS7G2b: Explain the relationship between poor soil and deforestation in Sub-Saharan Africa

Deforestation in Sub-Saharan Africa (1) Sub-Saharan Africa has 30% of the world’s rain forests Africa has a 1% deforestation rate each year High amounts of deforestation has led to a lack of clean air across the continent

Deforestation in Sub-Saharan Africa (2) Caused by commercial farming, cattle ranching, and human activity Low level of knowledge by farmers Most wood used for cooking or heating

SS7G2c SS7G2c: Explain the impact of deforestation on the environment of Africa from the Sahel to the Rain Forest

Desertification in Africa (1) Causes: Overgrazing Drought Effect: Decreases in the grassland regions of the Sahel

Desertification in Africa (2) Linked to poverty, migration, and food security Each year, the Sahara expands into grassland regions