1. Environmental Issues of Africa

2. Lack of Water
Only 47% of sub-Saharan Africa has access to safe drinking water.
Causes- Natural Phenomena such as snails, worms, insect larvae and parasites
Effects- Waterborne diseases reduce life expectancy, lessen quality of life and halt economic development

3. Deforestation
Occurs when forests are cut to clear space for cultivation, grazing or settlement.
Causes- Slash and burn agriculture, trees cut for firewood and building materials and forests not be replanted.
Effects- Loss of animal and plant habitats and desertification

4. Desertification The conversion of productive land into desert.
Causes- Overgrazing, over cultivation, deforestation and over irrigation
Effects- Lack of arable land has led to famine

5. Unclean or Polluted Water
Disposal of toxic waste in water resources
Causes- European companies dumping toxic waste in Africa
Effect- Diseases and illness throughout Africa

6. Soil Erosion Africa’s soil has eroded and lost its fertility
Causes- With the onset of colonial rule large plantations were developed and the export of raw materials such as rubber, ivory, palm oil, timber and copper started.
Effects- Enormous pressure has been place on Africa’s fragile ecosystem.