Deforestation is the second leading cause of global warming (climate change) worldwide, and it produces about 24% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Deforestation in the tropical rainforests contributes more carbon dioxide to the atmosphere than the sum of all cars and trucks that drive on the world’s roads.
Why would deforestation this lead to more carbon dioxide?
a
Loss of trees leads to a decrease of the ability of forests to act as carbon sinks to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
b
Equipment used for clear-cutting produce metric tons of carbon dioxide, which is released into the atmosphere during the process of deforestation.
c
The increased amount of timber harvested produces oxygen gas, which encourages the wildlife to generate carbon dioxide.
d
The changed habitats support more animals, like native birds and mammals, that produce more carbon dioxide.