What is Deforestation?

Deforestation is the change of forested areas to non-forest land. This removal of major areas of forest has resulted in a ruined environment with reduced biodiversity. In developing countries, substantial deforestation is continuing and is determining geography and climate.

Causes of Deforestation... There are many causes, ranging from slow forest deprivation to unexpected and disastrous wildfires. The combined effect of grazing and fires can be a major cause of deforestation in dry areas. The most significant direct causes of deforestation include the conversion of forested lands for agriculture and cattle-raising, logging, mining and oil exploitation, acid rain, fire and urbanization. But, there has been a trend of highlighting small-scale migratory farmers or "poverty" as the key cause of forest loss. Such farmers sometimes settle beside roads through the forest, to clear a piece of land and to use it for growing cash crops. In tropical forests, these practices lead to fast soil degradation as most soils are too poor to continue agriculture. Therefore, the farmer is forced to clear another piece of forest after a few years. The ruined agricultural land is frequently used for a few years more for cattle rising. It is a mistake to believe that such flawed agricultural procedures only take place in tropical countries. Many parts of Western Europe and North America have become deforested due to inconsistent agriculture. Effects of Deforestation... The effects of deforestation can be grouped in three ways. They are: global social effects, environmental effects, and local social effects. Many of the environmental effects add to the severity of the social problems. That is why it is important to be aware of the environmental effects of deforestation and how they play a part in the social effects of deforestation. Pros of Deforestation... From a timber extractor’s point of view, it would be unwise to pass up the chance to get something for nothing that is characterized by primary forest logging. The profits are huge, usually in excess of 50%, and the threat is small.

What do you think?

• Give me your opinion on deforestation, and explain why you feel the way you do?