land use

• What is one way humans reduce the amount of land available for animals and plants?

  By using land for buildings, farms, and waste dumping
• How does human activity affect biodiversity?

  It reduces biodiversity by decreasing available habitats
• What are peat bogs and peat lands primarily composed of?

  Large amounts of dead plant materials
• Why does decay occur slowly in peat bogs?

  Because of the specific conditions present in peat
• What happens to carbon stored in peat when it is extracted for compost?

  It begins to decay and releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
• What is one consequence of burning peat for energy?

  It releases carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change
• What has been the response of many gardeners regarding peat-based compost?

  Many gardeners have stopped buying compost made with peat
• What is a potential downside of using alternatives to peat-based compost?

  Alternatives are often more expensive
• How might the use of peat-free compost affect food prices for farmers?

  It could increase the price of food
• What are the main human activities that reduce land available for biodiversity?

  • Construction of buildings (houses, factories, shops, airports)
  • Agricultural land use (farms)
  • Resource extraction (quarries)
  • Waste disposal (landfills)
• What are the impacts of peat bog destruction on biodiversity and carbon emissions?

  • Reduces habitat area for animals, plants, and microorganisms
  • Decreases biodiversity
  • Releases carbon dioxide when peat decays
  • Contributes to climate change
• What are the challenges associated with transitioning away from peat-based compost?

  • Higher costs of alternatives
  • Potential increase in food prices for farmers
  • Need for sustainable solutions