Deforestation Overview

Forests take up almost one third of the surfaces of our planet with crust. They carry out many functions that are necessary for the well-being of all species. However forests are constantly being threatened by deforestation every single day. Deforestation is the permanent annihilation of forests in an attempt to make the land suitable for other reasons.  There are many different types of deforestation and each have an impact on multiple different plants and animal species that rely on trees for their habitat or food. Forests also are important for regulating climate change, because they absorb carbon in the atmosphere that would disrupt climate norms if it was not soaked up. Deforestation is mainly caused by agriculture, has many negative effects, and poses a threat to many wildlife species.

Agriculture

Trees are cut down for multiple different reasons, but agriculture is the main cause. According to the WWF (2016) on agriculture, “Rising demand has created incentives to convert forests to farmland and pasture land. Once a forest is lost to agriculture, it is usually gone forever—along with many of the plants and animals that once lived there.” This reflects the harsh truth that even though we need more food due to increasing human populations, once the land is changed countless of other animal species end up homeless or on the verge of extinction. In fact, about 80% of the world’s documented species can be found in tropical rainforests, and NASA predicts that if the current deforestation levels continue at this rate, the world's rainforests may be completely gone in as little as 100 years.

Negative Effects

Many negative effects of deforestation include increased greenhouse gas emissions, disruption of water cycles, and increased soil erosion. However, deforestation can be combated with the combined efforts of like-minded people who want to protect the planet. Reforestation would facilitate restoration of ecosystem services provided by the environment, and reduce the buildup of carbon dioxide. Increased greenhouse gas emissions influences global warming as well as the accumulation of carbon dioxide.

Wildlife Habitats

Deforestation negatively affects wildlife habitats. Animals that rely on the forests for protection and shelter must venture elsewhere to survive once the trees are cut down. Deforestation is a major cause of endangered animal species and even their extinction. Once the forests are gone the animals that once lived there are exposed to threats that were otherwise avoided due to their habitat. In fact, WWF (2016) states “About 80% of the world’s documented species can be found in tropical rainforests—some of the forests most vulnerable to deforestation.”

           

In conclusion, deforestation may impact animal species and cause many other problems because of agriculture practices, but it is not too late to fix the problem. The combined efforts of all species is needed for them to coexist together. Humans must respect animal habitats and cut down on certain agricultural methods that ruin animal habitats. The WWF highlights that deforestation can be combated through sustainable practices, reforestation attempts, and protecting areas where certain animal populations are scarce.