Deforestation (AQA GCSE Biology Combined Science): Revision Notes
📚 Revision Notes
7.3.4 Deforestation
infoNote
Deforestation is the large-scale removal of trees from an area, to repurpose the land for agriculture, urban development, or other uses.
Causes of Deforestation in Tropical Areas
- Agriculture: Clearing land for cattle ranching and rice fields.
- Biofuel Production: Growing crops like sugarcane and maize to produce biofuels.
Problems Caused by Deforestation
- Increased CO₂ Emissions: Trees store carbon, so when they are burned or decomposed, CO₂ is released into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.
- Reduced Carbon Absorption: Fewer trees mean less CO₂ is absorbed from the atmosphere through photosynthesis, exacerbating climate change.
- Loss of Habitats: Deforestation leads to the destruction of habitats, reducing biodiversity and endangering species that rely on forests for survival.