What are 10 disadvantages and advantages of shifting cultivation?
What do you mean by "shifting cultivation?
Please explain. Then I'll be able to help you find the advantages and disadvantages.
What are 10 disadvantges and advantages of shifting cultivation in agricultural science?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shifting_cultivation
To find 10 advantages and disadvantages of shifting cultivation, you might follow these steps:
1. Research shifting cultivation: Understand what shifting cultivation is and how it works. Shifting cultivation, also known as slash-and-burn or swidden agriculture, is a traditional agricultural practice where forested land is cleared, burned, and cultivated for a period of time before being abandoned for a new plot.
2. Identify advantages of shifting cultivation:
a. Soil fertility: Shifting cultivation can help maintain soil fertility as the land is left fallow for many years.
b. Crop diversity: The practice allows farmers to grow a variety of crops, increasing dietary diversity and food security.
c. Low investment: Shifting cultivation requires fewer inputs and financial investments compared to other agricultural systems.
d. Cultural significance: Shifting cultivation is deeply rooted in many indigenous cultures and their traditional knowledge.
e. Forest conservation: By periodically moving to new plots, shifting cultivation can help conserve forests by allowing them to regenerate.
3. Identify disadvantages of shifting cultivation:
a. Deforestation and habitat loss: The clearing of land for shifting cultivation contributes to deforestation and loss of natural habitats.
b. Erosion and soil degradation: Repeated land clearing and burning can cause soil erosion, resulting in long-term soil degradation.
c. Greenhouse gas emissions: The burning associated with shifting cultivation releases carbon dioxide and contributes to global warming.
d. Vulnerability to climate change: Shifting cultivation is often practiced in regions that are highly susceptible to climate change impacts, including changing rainfall patterns.
e. Land tenure issues: The practice may lead to conflicts over land ownership and tenure rights, as it relies on moving from one plot to another.
4. Compile and review the advantages and disadvantages: Consider all the points you have gathered and evaluate their significance and applicability to the context you are considering.
5. Present the advantages and disadvantages: Summarize the ten points, listing five advantages and five disadvantages, explaining each point briefly.
Remember that the advantages and disadvantages of shifting cultivation can vary depending on the specific local context and the practices adopted by farmers.