The Effects of Deforestation in Ecuador

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In today's hectic world people work longer hours and utilize more technology and energy more than ever. The impact that this is having on the environment is substantial in both negative and positive ways. It is hard to deny the benefits modern technology has produced for the world, in industry and in everyday life. With more and more technological breakthroughs, there have been many positive ecological impacts, but the negative impacts are almost overwhelming. A Perfect example would be the deforestation of our rain forests.

Ecuador is located on the equator in the tropical Andes of South America. Its territory includes four principal regions: the Amazon, the Andes, the Pacific Coast, and the Galapagos Islands; and is home to at least 14 indigenous nationalities. The eastern half of the country makes up part Earth’s largest and most biodiverse watershed and tropical rainforest. Ecuador is one of the world’s ‘megadiversity hotspots.’ It is one of the most species-rich countries on the planet. Part of the reason for this is that it’s a tropical country, and the tropics harbor a much greater diversity than do temperate countries. But Ecuador’s astounding biodiversity is also due to the simple fact that there are a great number of different habitats within its borders. Obviously, the cold, high Andes support very different species than do the low tropical rain forests. When all the intermediate areas are included, and the coastal region added, the result is a wealth of habitats, ecosystems and wildlife. The transition zones between the lowlands and the highlands, where much species overlapping occurs, are some of the most biodiverse regions on earth. For nature lovers, this place is a dream come true. Ecuador's natural attractions c...

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...hat are concerned with conservation in Ecuador have been created in recent years and are participating in various activities aimed at conserving and managing Ecuador’s natural resources. The lack of information and analysis capabilities has prompted both the government and some of the non-governmental organizations to initiate geographic information system projects to support ecosystem management.

Works Cited

Beck, E., Bendix, J., Kottke, I., Makeschin, F., & Mosandl, R. (2010). Gradients in a tropical mountain

ecosystem of ecuador. New York, NY: Springer.

Cunningham, W. P., & Cunningham, M. (2011). Environmental science: Inquiry & applications (6th ed.).

New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.

Mecham, J. (2001, May). Causes and consequences of deforestation in Ecuador. Retrieved January 15,

2012, from http://www.rainforestinfo.org.au/projects/jefferson.htm

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