Go Green Quiz Bee

Deforestation is the second leading cause of global warming in the world.

• True

• False

• Cannot be determined

• No available data

Answer explanation

Deforestation is the second leading cause of global warming worldwide, and it produces about 24% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Deforestation in the tropical rainforests contributes more carbon dioxide to the atmosphere than the sum of all cars and trucks that drive on the world’s roads.

Which of the following is NOT a problem caused by deforestation?

• Loss of biodiversity

• Hurting the economy

• The harming of many indigenous peoples

• They are all problems caused by deforestation

Answer explanation

Across the world, forests are home to about 80% of terrestrial biodiversity, while many indigenous people (about 60 million) are completely dependent on the forest for their food and livelihood. Many more people live near forests and rely on them. In terms of the economy, forests provide 75-100 billion US dollars of goods and services every year.

Which of the following is NOT a reason why biodiversity is important?

• Biodiversity loss would decrease water quality

• There are too many animal species on the world

• Many species act as a pest control

• Biodiversity loss decreases available nutrition

Answer explanation

Biodiversity is important for a variety of reasons. For one, biodiversity promotes healthier, maintained ecosystems that provide services to us, such as protected water resources and recovery from disasters. The genetic variety of crops, livestock, and marine organisms used for food ensures that humans are provided with a healthy, nutrient rich diet. A variety of diverse species ensures that natural enemy species, which are integral to biological control, are able to take care of pests in ecosystems.

Which land-based ecosystem has the most biodiversity?

• Deserts

• Tropical Rainforests

• The Tundra

• Grasslands

Answer explanation

Worldwide, the tropics contain the most biodiversity, with rainforests being the areas that are the most rich in species. Although the tropical forests only cover 6% of the Earth’s surface, they contain one half to three quarters of the world’s plant and animal species.

What can you do to fight deforestation?

• Leave forests standing and plant more trees

• Reduce your use of products made from wood fiber including paper and cardboard

• Demand forest products from sustainable sources

• all of the choices

Answer explanation

We also suggest recycling forest products that you use, choosing to buy recycled forest products, avoiding products that include palm oil, and supporting organizations that reforest and conserve.

What is known as the "Sixth Extinction"?

• The six major species in the world today that are facing the threat of extinction

• The sixth species that became extinct

• The sequel to the move The Fifth Element

• The current period of time where species are disappearing at an extreme rate

Answer explanation

Elizabeth Kolbert, author of The Sixth Extinction, says that human behavior, particularly pertaining to use of fossil fuels and climate change, has led to a “Six Extinction” where many species are considered endangered and are disappearing.

How many trees does it take to provide a day's supply of oxygen for 4 people?

• 1

• 10

• 50

• 100

Answer explanation

One large tree is able to supply a day’s supply of oxygen for four people. Trees are also able to absorb up to 48 pounds of carbon dioxide a year.

Global forests removed how much of the global human fossil fuel emissions annually from 1990 to 2007?

• 65%

• 33%

• 5%

• 0%

Answer explanation

A study conducted by the US Forest Service’s Northern Research Station found that between 1990 and 2007, global forests have removed 2.4 billion tons of carbon and have absorbed 8.8 billion tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere annually. This is equivalent to about one third of fossil fuel emissions. Forests, just like oceans, are carbon sinks.

How much of the Earth's land is covered by forests?

• 5%

• 10%

• 16%

• 31%

Answer explanation

According to the World Wildlife Fund, 31% of the Earth’s land is covered by forests. Forests produce oxygen and provide homes for both people and animals. Forests also provide food, water, clothing, and traditional medicine and act as carbon sinks.

Which is NOT a factor contributing to the loss of biodiversity?

• The planting of trees

• Urbanization

• Climate Change

• Over-exploitation of species

Answer explanation

Species are subject to overexploitation, which may be due to poaching, hunting, or harvesting. When the climate changes, animal species have to adapt; temperature differences may send signals that cause reproduction or migration at the wrong time, when species aren’t ready. Deforestation and habitat destruction, particularly for urbanization and development, also lead to the loss of biodiversity.