• Environment -> Climate Change and Sustainability

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How do deforestation and the climate crisis intersect?

Jaylah Petrosian

Hey there,

Deforestation is one of the major drivers of the climate crisis we are facing today. The clearing of trees and forests for agriculture, livestock, and infrastructure leads to the emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Trees store carbon, which they use during photosynthesis to produce oxygen and sugar, keeping the balance between oxygen and carbon dioxide in the air.

When forests are cut down, this carbon storage mechanism is interrupted, and the carbon in the trees is released into the atmosphere as they decay or are burned. This process of deforestation accounts for approximately 15% of global greenhouse gas emissions, which are the primary cause of climate change.

Furthermore, trees play a vital role in regulating the earth's water cycle. They absorb water through their roots and release it back into the atmosphere through a process known as transpiration. This process creates moisture in the air, which helps to regulate the planet's temperature and rainfall patterns.

When deforestation occurs, this water cycle is disrupted, leading to a decrease in rainfall and changes in the temperature in the areas surrounding the removed forests. These changes can lead to droughts, floods, and other natural disasters, which have a severe impact on both the environment and human communities.

To sum up, deforestation and the climate crisis are closely connected. The destruction of forests not only leads to the release of greenhouse gases, but it also disrupts the earth's water cycle, leading to catastrophic environmental problems. It is therefore crucial that we take action to protect our forests and promote sustainable land use practices.

Thanks for asking!

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