Deforestation : Definition
The permanent chopping, clearing and subtraction of trees intentionally, naturally or inadvertently is called deforestation.
Causes of Deforestation
- Mining
- Logging
- Cattle ranching
- Agriculture
- Urban development
Effects of Deforestation
- Tree roots cause gaps in the soil. This enables water and air to reach roots of plants. After deforestation, the water stays on top of the soil, which can cause floods.
- Trees absorb water and give out some moisture to the atmosphere. When trees are chopped down, the rivers etc dry out and drought occurs.
- Birds, insects and animals lose their homes.
- Plants soak up CO2 during photosynthesis and give out oxygen. Cutting down plants will increase CO2 and increase global warming.
- Insect plagues occur.
What can we do to stop Deforestation
- Reduce paper use
- Educate ourselves and others on importance of forests
- For each older tree being cut, a newer young tree should be planted
3 Facts about Deforestation
- 2000 trees are brutally chopped down every minute in the rainforests.
- 25% of our medicines come from rainforest trees.
- 70% of our plants and animals reside in forests.
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