What is Deforestation? — Passage and Quiz

Deforestation is the large-scale removal of forests, primarily caused by human activities such as logging, agriculture, mining, and urbanization. Forests are vital ecosystems that support biodiversity, regulate climate, and provide resources like timber, food, and medicine. However, deforestation disrupts these functions, leading to severe environmental and social consequences.

The major reasons for deforestation include:

1. Agriculture: Forests are cleared to create farmland for crops and livestock.
2. Logging: Trees are cut down for timber and paper production.
3. Urbanization: Forests are replaced by cities and infrastructure.

4. Mining: Forests are destroyed to extract minerals and fossil fuels.

    

Deforestation has far-reaching impacts on ecosystems and the planet. It contributes to climate change by releasing stored carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, reduces biodiversity by destroying habitats, and disrupts water cycles, leading to soil erosion and desertification. Additionally, deforestation affects indigenous communities that rely on forests for their livelihoods.

Efforts to combat deforestation include reforestation, sustainable logging practices, and conservation programs. Protecting forests is essential for maintaining biodiversity, regulating the Earth’s climate, and ensuring the survival of countless species, including humans.

Fun fact: Forests are home to more than 80% of the world’s terrestrial biodiversity!