Molokai's seclusion is caused in part by its limited natural resources. Steep hillsides, an
arid climate, strong winds, and rough seas mean that only a small portion of the land is
viable for economic and agricultural development. But because of Molokai's close
proximity to more powerful islands, covetous outsiders spent centuries exploiting what
existed of its natural resources, hoping to squeeze a profit out of Molokal for
themselves. From Hawaiian chieftains to modern corporations, the land was used and
abused, leading to a vicious cycle of land-clearing, soil degradation, landslides, and
more. In short, those in power would wreak havoc on the land and depart, leaving the
Island in ruin. The small local population was left to pick up the pieces.
Why did the author include this passage?
A
To point out that in the past, the actions of Molokal's native residents in extracting the
island's natural resources caused environmental ruin on a massive scale
B
To suggest that Molokai is now ripe for economic development because valuable and
highly exploitable natural resources remain on the island
с
To draw emphasis to the fact that the island of Molokai is located in such a remote
location that the economic development of its resources is extremely difficult
D
To explain that in spite of the island's remote location and relative lack of natural