Deforestation
Causes, Consequences and Solutions
Consequences of Deforestation
Deforestation has effects on ecosystems, biodiversity, climate, and human well-being in addition to the obvious loss of trees. Deforestation disrupts the delicate balance of ecosystems by causing habitat loss and biodiversity loss. It also disrupts water cycles, increases the likelihood of soil erosion, and increases the vulnerability of humans to floods and landslides. Local residents are disproportionately impacted by deforestation, particularly indigenous groups whose livelihoods depend on the forests. The degradation of land, loss of access to forest resources, and displacement of traditional ways of life all contribute to poverty. Deforestation has serious negative effects on the economy, including the loss of ecosystem services that regulate the climate, filter water, and sequester carbon. It also puts in jeopardy industries like ecotourism and sustainable forestry that rely on intact forest ecosystems.