Kaskiviljelyn

Kaskiviljelyn, also known as slash-and-burn agriculture, is a traditional farming method. It involves clearing a patch of land by cutting down trees and vegetation and then burning the debris. The ash left behind fertilizes the soil, making it suitable for planting crops for a few seasons. This method is often practiced in tropical regions where the soil nutrients are quickly depleted.

After a few years of cultivation, the land is left fallow, allowing the forest to regrow and restore soil fertility. This fallow period can last for several years, depending on the local ecosystem and traditional practices. Once the forest has regenerated sufficiently, the cycle begins again. Kaskiviljelyn is a sustainable practice when population densities are low and land is abundant, allowing for long fallow periods.

However, when practiced too intensively or with shorter fallow periods, kaskiviljelyn can lead to soil erosion, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity. In modern times, many governments and organizations are working to promote more sustainable agricultural techniques to address these environmental concerns. Despite the challenges, kaskiviljelyn remains an important part of the cultural heritage and subsistence strategies for many communities around the world.