Wood Log Cake
Deforestation
is the intentional clearance of trees or forested land, especially on a large
scale. The effects of deforestation have been extremely detrimental as it has significantly
transformed landscapes around the globe. One of the devastating consequences of
deforestation is the release of carbon dioxide, which exacerbates global
warming. The carbon inside the tree's chemical composition from photosynthesis
is emitted into the atmosphere as carbon dioxide when the tree is burned.
Another result of deforestation is the extinction of biodiversity as many
tropical forests house habitats for many species, but those species are
threatened when the trees surrounding them are logged or burned. Additionally,
soil is more likely to erode when trees are removed, and this dry land puts
plants more at risk to fires.
A
few of the causes of deforestation include agriculture, cattle ranching,
logging, and housing. Agriculture is one of the most outstanding causes as
certain agricultural practices--such as slash-and-burn agriculture--are
responsible for the removal of substantial portions of land. The issue with
these techniques is that they can unintentionally set fires to other parts of
forests, including those that were supposed to be protected. Smoke from these
fires can further limit rainfall and make them even harder to extinguish.
Another cause is cattle ranching, as large fast-food companies account for mass
deforestation when they create space to raise cattle for their meat supply.
Additionally, logging is a common cause of deforestation, as the trees are used
to produce paper products. The most damaging type of logging is clear-cutting,
where an entire area of forest is cut down completely with nothing spared.
Lastly, housing is a major cause of deforestation as it is powered by
overpopulation--one of the most critical and complicated issues at the root of
many environmental crises.
Solving
deforestation not only conserves precious wildlife but also serves as an
effective method to fight global warming. The most influence lies in the hands
of larger corporations. Holding these companies and their suppliers accountable
for their unsustainable practices in their supply chains and ensuring they
implement their promises to protect our environment is a critical step to
minimize the effects of deforestation. However, on an individual scale, making
more informed and sustainable choices would help advance this movement for
change. You can do so by reducing your waste, steering clear of single-use
packaging, eating sustainably, and opting for recycled wood products (or
products sourced responsibly).
Sources:
Deforestation | National Geographic Society
What Exactly Is Deforestation Doing to Our Planet? - EcoHealth Alliance
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