Environmental Issues
DeforestationCAUSES:
Poor resource planning and lack of governmental regulation has lead to the destruction of large swaths of forested land in Southern Europe, especially in Spain EFFECTS: Loss of so much forest in Spain has placed over 36% of the country at risk of desertification. |
Climate ChangeCAUSES:
Climate change in the Mediterranean areas of Southern Europe causes a decrease in yearly precipitation due to change in ocean currents and global weather patterns. EFFECTS: Decreased precipitation causes droughts and water shortages in southern Italy and much of the land in the Mediterranean Basin. |
Acid RainCAUSES:
Acid rain is caused by the formation of sulfuric and nitric acids in the atmosphere from sulfur dioxide and nitrates released by refineries. EFFECTS: Acid rain causes damage to stone buildings, poisons plants, and can even chew the bark off of trees. |