How is the Global Community Addressing Deforestation?

The IELTS Reading section is designed to test a variety of reading skills, including skimming, understanding logical argument, recognizing writers’ opinions, attitudes and purpose. One common topic that has appeared frequently in past IELTS Reading exams is deforestation, specifically how the global community is addressing it. Given the growing concern over environmental issues, it is likely that this topic will continue to appear in future exams.

Practice IELTS Reading Test: Addressing Global Deforestation

Reading Passage

Global Efforts to Combat Deforestation

Deforestation, the clearing or thinning of forests by humans, has significant implications for the environment, biodiversity, and climate change. The global community has recognized the critical need to address deforestation, and various initiatives have been introduced in recent years.

One of the leading efforts to combat deforestation is the United Nations’ REDD+ program (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation). This program incentivizes developing countries to reduce emissions from deforestation and invest in low-carbon paths to sustainable development. It provides financial incentives for countries that successfully reduce deforestation rates and implement conservation initiatives.

Additionally, many countries have introduced domestic policies to combat deforestation. Brazil, for example, has implemented rigorous monitoring systems using satellite imagery to track deforestation in the Amazon rainforest. These systems help law enforcement agencies to identify and respond quickly to illegal logging activities.

deforestation-amazon-satellite|deforestation satellite imagery|A satellite image showing deforestation in the Amazon rainforest, with large patches of cleared land.

Corporate responsibility also plays a crucial role in addressing deforestation. Several multinational companies have committed to zero-deforestation policies in their supply chains. For instance, major players in the palm oil industry have pledged to source only certified sustainable palm oil, which helps to reduce the environmental impact of deforestation.

Community-based forest management initiatives have also proven effective. Empowering local communities to manage their forests sustainably ensures that conservation efforts are rooted in local knowledge and need. These initiatives often combine traditional forest practices with modern conservation techniques, leading to more effective and sustainable forest management.

The global community faces significant challenges in eradicating deforestation, but concerted efforts at international, national, and local levels provide hope for a sustainable future.

Questions

Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D.

1. What does the REDD+ program aim to do?

   • A. Provide sustainable forest management techniques
   • B. Reduce emissions from deforestation and degradation
   • C. Stop illegal logging activities
   • D. Develop new forms of agriculture

2. What tool is used by Brazil to monitor deforestation?

   • A. Ground patrols
   • B. Aerial photography
   • C. Satellite imagery
   • D. Drone surveillance

Do the following statements agree with the information given in the reading passage? Write: True, False, or Not Given

3. REDD+ provides financial incentives to companies for reducing emissions.
4. Community-based forest management combines traditional and modern conservation techniques.
5. Certification in the palm oil industry has no impact on deforestation rates.

Answer Keys

1. B. Reduce emissions from deforestation and degradation

   • Explanation: The passage states that REDD+ focuses on reducing emissions from deforestation and degradation by providing financial incentives for successful conservation efforts.

2. C. Satellite imagery

   • Explanation: The text indicates that Brazil uses satellite imagery to track and monitor deforestation in the Amazon rainforest.

3. False

   • Explanation: The REDD+ program provides financial incentives to countries, not companies, for reducing emissions and promoting sustainable development.

4. True

   • Explanation: The passage mentions that community-based forest management initiatives combine traditional forest practices with modern conservation techniques.

5. False

   • Explanation: The text notes that certified sustainable palm oil helps reduce the environmental impact of deforestation.

Common Mistakes

1. Misidentifying the targets of programs: A frequent error is misunderstanding who benefits from a program, such as mistaking the beneficiaries of REDD+ incentives.
2. Overgeneralization: Assuming all forms of monitoring and enforcement (not just satellite imagery) are equally employed and effective.
3. Ignoring specific details: Overlooking the combination of methods in community-based forest management can lead to wrong answers.

Vocabulary

• Deforestation (n) /ˌdiːfɔːrɪˈsteɪʃn/: clearing or thinning of forests by humans.
• Incentivize (v) /ɪnˈsentɪvaɪz/: to motivate or encourage someone to do something.
• Conservation (n) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/: the preservation and careful management of the environment and natural resources.
• Sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbl/: capable of being maintained at a steady level without exhausting natural resources or causing severe ecological damage.

Grammar

• Present Continuous for ongoing initiatives: “Countries are introducing monitoring systems…” to indicate actions currently happening.
• Passive voice for focus on action results: “These systems are used…” to highlight the monitoring methods rather than the actors.

Tips for High Scores in IELTS Reading

1. Skim and Scan: Develop both skimming for general understanding and scanning for specific details.
2. Familiarity with Different Question Types: Familiarize yourself with various IELTS Reading question types and practice accordingly.
3. Time Management: Allocate your time wisely among the passages and questions, ensuring you don’t spend too long on any single section.