deforestation

26. What is deforestation?.

The permanent removal of forest trees

27. What are four causes of rainforest deforestation?

Cattle ranching, commercial farming, logging and mineral extraction.

28. How does cattle ranching cause deforestation?

Trees are cleared to create grazing land for cattle.

29. How does commercial farming cause deforestation?

Forests are cleared to grow crops such as palm oil and soya.

30. How does logging cause deforestation?

Trees are cut down for timber and other products.

31. How does road building cause deforestation?

Roads allow easier access for loggers, farmers and settlers.

32. How does deforestation affect biodiversity?

Habitats are destroyed, causing wildlife populations to decline.

33. How does deforestation contribute to climate change?

Fewer trees absorb carbon dioxide, and burning trees releases carbon dioxide.

34. How does deforestation affect soil?

Soil erosion increases because fewer roots hold the soil together.

35. How can deforestation affect the water cycle?

Less transpiration can reduce local rainfall.

36. What are the economic benefits of rainforest exploitation?

Jobs, income, timber, minerals and agricultural products.

37. What are the social costs of deforestation?

Indigenous communities can lose their homes and traditional ways of life.