Deforestation
Biology: Cambridge International GCSE Supplement, topic 20.2.2
Deforestation
Deforestation is the cutting, clearing and removal of forests in order to free up land for biofuels (fuels derived from living matter) as well as cattle and rice fields. Negative consequences associated with deforestation include:
Carbon dioxide
- The burning of trees and decomposition of wood increases the rate of carbon dioxide that is released into the atmosphere.
- As less photosynthesis is taking place, less carbon dioxide can be removed from the atmosphere.
Biodiversity
- Deforestation destroys habitats. This causes biodiversity to be lost.
Ecosystem services
- Deforestation causes a loss of ecosystem services provided by forests, such as erosion prevention, flood control and food provision.
Methane
- Forests are often chopped down to be replaced by agriculture, with the purpose of growing rice or farming cattle.
- These activities produce methane, which is a greenhouse gas.