2.1.7 Part 2: Amazon Deforestation & Savannisation

What proportion of Amazon deforestation is driven by cattle ranching, and what is the resulting carbon loss?

Cattle ranching causes 60–70% of Amazon deforestation. Converting mature forest (150–200 t C/ha) to pasture (5–10 t C/ha) results in a >90% loss of site carbon storage capacity and emits 100–120 tonnes CO₂/ha.

How does soy production drive indirect deforestation in the Amazon?

Direct soy clearing accounts for 10–15% of deforestation, but its expansion pushes cattle ranchers deeper into the forest frontier, multiplying total clearance and fragmentation.

Define "Savannisation" in the context of the Amazon Rainforest.

The progressive degradation of dense, humid tropical forest into an open, grass-dominated savannah due to deforestation, reduced evapotranspiration, extended dry seasons, and increased fire frequency.

What is the quantitative impact of savannisation on total ecosystem carbon stores?

Total carbon storage drops from 250–350 tonnes C/ha in rainforest down to 65–110 tonnes C/ha in savannah—representing a loss of up to 75–80% of stored carbon.

How does deforestation affect soil carbon in the Amazon?

Up to 40% of soil organic carbon can be lost within 10 years of deforestation due to disruption of nutrient cycling, erosion, and increased soil exposure.