Final answer:
The primary environmental concern with SE Asia is the destruction of tropical rainforests, vulnerability to climate change impacts like flooding, and rapid population growth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary environmental concern with Southeast Asia is the destruction of tropical rainforests. As shown in Figure 4.5, timber operations in Indonesian Borneo are severely imperiling the rainforests in the region. This destruction of habitats not only leads to the loss of biodiversity but also contributes to global climate change.
Additionally, the region is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including flooding. Low-lying agricultural lands in countries like Bangladesh would suffer even more flooding and devastation if sea levels rise or if storms increase, resulting in a decrease in the food supply.
Finally, the rapid population growth in Southeast Asia is putting immense pressure on the environment. The already large populations continue to increase, challenging economic systems and depleting natural resources at an unsustainable rate.