slash-and-burn

Slash-and-burn is an agricultural practice where farmers cut down (slash) vegetation and trees in a forested area, then burn the debris to clear land for crops. This method temporarily enriches the soil with nutrients from the ash, making farming possible. It is often used in tropical regions with nutrient-poor soils. However, it can lead to deforestation, habitat loss, and land degradation if repeated frequently without sustainable management. While traditional slash-and-burn can be environmentally appropriate in certain contexts, overuse can cause long-term ecological harm, requiring careful consideration and sustainable practices.