Slash And Burn
A method of creating a field by cutting and burning of plants in a forest or woodland
Real World Example
In the ancient Americas, slash and burn was a farming technique used to clear forests for agriculture by cutting down trees and burning the vegetation. This method was important because it enriched the soil with ash, making it fertile for growing crops like maize, beans, and squash. It responded to the challenge of feeding growing populations by creating new farmland in dense forest areas. Today, slash and burn is still used in some parts of the world, but it can lead to deforestation and loss of biodiversity, which affects climate change and the environment. For example, if someone lives near areas where slash and burn is practiced, they may notice poorer air quality and changes in local weather patterns due to increased carbon emissions.
Practice Version
