Deforestation Study Guide

Deforestation is the clearing of forests on a massive scale, often resulting in damage to the quality of the land. It is primarily driven by human activities such as agriculture, logging, and urbanization. Deforestation has significant negative impacts on the environment, including loss of biodiversity, disruption of the water cycle, and contribution to climate change.

Causes of Deforestation

• Agriculture: Clearing land for farming and livestock.
• Logging: Harvesting trees for wood and paper products.
• Urbanization: Clearing land for expanding cities and infrastructure.
• Infrastructure Development: Building roads, dams, and other structures.

Impact of Deforestation

• Loss of Biodiversity: Destruction of habitats leads to the extinction of plant and animal species.
• Climate Change: Trees absorb carbon dioxide, and their removal contributes to the greenhouse effect.
• Disruption of Water Cycle: Deforestation can lead to reduced rainfall and soil erosion.

Ways to Address Deforestation

• Conservation: Protecting forests through national parks and reserves.
• Reforestation: Planting new trees to replace those that have been cut down.
• Sustainable Practices: Using land and resources in a way that minimizes environmental impact.

[Deforestation] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

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