What was the effect of deforestation on forest-dwelling communities?

Correct answer: Access to forest resources decreased

Correct answer: D, access to forest resources decreased. Forest-dwelling communities often depended on forests for fuel, fodder, food, small forest products and other parts of their livelihood. When forests were cut or placed under strict colonial control, the amount of accessible forest and the freedom to use it could decline. D is correct because it describes this loss of access. A is wrong because deforestation and colonial forest policies generally restricted customary use rather than automatically giving communities more rights. B is wrong because losing access to livelihood resources created or increased difficulties. C is wrong because forest clearance did not generally provide sea-based employment. The important idea is not only that the number of trees fell; people’s relationship with the forest and their means of living were also affected. Some communities resisted these changes because their customary rights and livelihoods were threatened. Memory cue: fewer forests meant fewer accessible livelihood resources.