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Modifying land is a common activity in all regions of the world. People modify their environments so they can use the resources for survival and profit. Land in South and Southeast Asia commonly is modified for three things: lumber, farming, and palm oil plantations. People in South and Southeast Asia use lumber to build structures, create furniture, and make ornamental objects, as well as to sell and to export to other regions. To modify land for farming, people in South and Southeast Asia use a technique known as slash-and-burn farming to clear areas and create fertile soil. This allows them to continue farming even after some land loses its nutrients. Finally, people in South and Southeast Asia create palm oil plantations, which produce an important oil used to fry, preserve, and create consistency in food. It is also used as a biodiesel fuel and exported around the world. These are all positive modifications that have enhanced the lives of people living in these regions. However, these land modifications also cause some negative effects. Deforestation has been a large problem in these regions. Forests are disappearing and taking plants and animals’ habitats with them. Many of these forests are not growing back and may not come back for hundreds of years. When vegetation is replanted, it sometimes lacks diversity and makes it hard for animals to find new homes. Deforestation can also limit resources for future populations. Finally, air pollution is a common result of slash-and-burn farming.
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