Deforestation is the systematic and extensive destruction of forests It results in the alteration of the natural environment, leading to a decrease in various habitats and resources benefiting humankind. For example, deforestation causes species loss, soil erosion, increases the levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, and adversely affects local and global rivers, as well as climates.
One of the main causes of deforestation is conversion to farmland. Land used for agriculture expands rapidly throughout the world causing the destruction of forests due to the need for food production. Another primary cause of deforestation is livestock grazing. Grazing cattle and other livestock in forested areas can cause damage to trees and soil. Logging for timber and for the production of paper and other wood-based products is also a major contributor to deforestation.
The following are five excellent examples of deforestation that are threatening the global environment:
1. Deforestation in the Amazon Rainforest: Covering approximately 2.1 million square miles, the Amazon Rainforest is home to an amazing variety of species, as well as many natural resources that are essential to the global ecosystem. Sadly, due to a combination of logging, mining and agricultural clearing, the Amazon Rainforest is currently experiencing an astonishing rate of deforestation.
2. Deforestation of the Boreal Forests: Covering 17% of the world’s land, the boreal forests are found in both the northern and southern hemispheres and are home to a vast array of species and habitats. According to experts, boreal forests are facing areas that are being cleared for mining and logging operations and for biofuel production.
3. Deforestation in Indonesia: Indonesia's tropical rainforest is under rapid destruction due to large-scale illegal and legal logging, mining, and palm oil plantation operations. In fact, Indonesia has the highest rate of deforestation in the world, with over 6.5 million hectares lost each year.
4. Deforestation in the Congo Basin: The Congo Basin covers an area of 1.8 million square miles and is home to the second largest rainforest in the world. Despite this, the Congo Basin has one of the highest deforestation rates in Africa, with an estimated 2.7 million hectares of forest being lost each year.
5. Deforestation in the Pacific Northwest: The Pacific Northwest is home to some of the world's last remaining, old-growth forests. Sadly, logging operations in the area are leading to a rapid decline in the population of these unique and essential habitats.
These five examples of deforestation demonstrate the vast scope of this global crisis, which is leading to dramatic changes in the environment and loss of essential resources. It is vital that we take the necessary steps to protect our forests and end the cycle of deforestation.