Which of the following activities promotes forest conservation?

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which activity promotes forest conservation. Conservation means protecting, maintaining, and wisely managing natural resources so they last for future generations.

Step 2: Explain the concept Forest conservation includes practices that protect existing forests and restore or replace trees that have been removed. Key methods include:

• Afforestation: planting trees in areas that had no forest before
• Reforestation: replanting trees where forests were cut down
• Controlled lumbering and enforcing forest reserves
• Preventing bush burning

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. Lumbering: This is the felling of trees for timber. Unless it is controlled and followed by replanting, it reduces forest cover. ✗
• B. Use of firewood for cooking: This removes trees and contributes to deforestation. ✗
• C. Afforestation: This is the planting of trees to create or expand forests. It adds to forest cover and helps prevent soil erosion and desertification. ✓
• D. Production of paper: Paper is made from wood pulp, so it increases demand for trees. ✗

Step 4: Answer The correct answer is C. Afforestation.

Step 5: Exam tip Link the "-ation" words to the idea of adding trees: afforestation and reforestation are conservation. Words like lumbering, felling, bush burning, and overgrazing are usually the harmful activities. If a question asks about conservation, look for the option that replaces or protects resources rather than uses them up.