Maapõletus

Maapõletus, also known as slash-and-burn agriculture, is a farming method where trees and vegetation are cut down and burned in a particular area of land. The ash left behind fertilizes the soil, making it suitable for cultivation for a period of time. After a few years, the land is usually left to fallow, allowing the forest to regrow, or the farmers move to a new area and repeat the process.

This practice has a long history and has been used by various cultures around the world, particularly in tropical regions with dense forests and relatively infertile soils. It is an effective way to clear land for crops and provide nutrients to the soil without the need for manufactured fertilizers. However, if not managed properly, maapõletus can lead to soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and significant air pollution from smoke. Over time, repeated use of the same land without adequate recovery periods can deplete soil nutrients and lead to deforestation and desertification. Modern sustainable agriculture practices often aim to mitigate the negative environmental impacts associated with traditional slash-and-burn methods.