How does deforestation cause global warming
Deforestation causes global warming in several ways:
1. Carbon dioxide emissions: Trees absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis and release oxygen. When trees are cut down or burned, the carbon stored in them is released into the atmosphere as carbon dioxide. This excess carbon dioxide contributes to the greenhouse effect, which traps heat in the atmosphere and causes global warming.
2. Reduced capacity for carbon absorption: Deforestation reduces the number of trees on Earth, which means there are fewer organisms to absorb carbon dioxide through photosynthesis. This, in turn, reduces the planet's natural capacity to absorb carbon, leading to a buildup of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
3. Loss of forest habitats: Deforestation destroys or fragments forest habitats, which can lead to the extinction of plant and animal species that depend on them. This, in turn, can lead to further changes in the ecosystem that contribute to global warming.
4. Increased soil erosion: Tree roots help to hold soil in place, preventing erosion. When trees are cut down, the soil is more susceptible to erosion, which can lead to carbon emissions from the soil and further contribute to global warming.
Overall, deforestation is a major contributor to global warming and climate change, and reducing deforestation is an important step towards mitigating the impacts of climate change.