3. Explain the importance of the biosphere

Q: Why is the biosphere important?
A:

A. For Supporting Life:

• Provides oxygen from plants for breathing

• Provides food from animals and plants

• Provides water for drinking and survival

• Helps in the carbon and oxygen cycle (balance gases in air)

B. For Economic Activities:

• Source of raw materials – timber, cotton, fish, crops

• Provides jobs – farming, fishing, forestry, tourism

• Used for medicine – herbal and modern drugs come from plants and animals

C. For the Environment:

• Maintains climate balance

• Purifies air – through trees absorbing carbon dioxide

• Prevents soil erosion – plant roots hold soil together

• Helps in pollination – insects like bees help grow fruits and crops

D. In Local Context (Malawi examples):

• Forests like Dzalanyama supply timber and firewood

• Lakes like Malawi provide fish and water

• Wildlife in parks attracts tourists and earns income

• Medicinal plants used in villages to treat illnesses