WAEC Biology 2013 Theory — Question 4

Model answer

(a)(i) Conservation refers to the controlled use of natural resources to ensure their continuous availability and to protect the environment. (ii) Factors responsible for the decline in abundance and variety of wildlife include: deforestation, urbanization, uncontrolled hunting, environmental pollution, bush burning, and some industrial activities. (b) Ways government can improve the situation include: The foremost way is to educate people about the need for conservation of wildlife. Laws should be enacted to govern some practices. Environmental Protection Agencies should be established. Game reserves and parks should be created. Zoological gardens should be established. Campaigns should be made against bush burning. (c)(i) Eutrophication refers to the excessive growth of algae in a body of water due to an increase in minerals and nutrients. (ii) Causes of eutrophication: release of sewage into water bodies; inordinate/excessive use of fertilizers (which run off into water bodies).