Deforestation is the process, usually caused by humans, that destroys the vegetation of a forest.
Although the causes are mainly human, sometimes non-human factors also intervene, such as an unprovoked fire.
We all know that trees fulfil a series of very important functions for the survival of human beings and animals. They produce oxygen, provide us with food, help prevent landslides and are even the basis for some medicines… They also absorb carbon dioxide, greenhouse gases and refresh the environment. In addition, they serve as home and food for many species of animals.
Because of industrialisation and the growth of mankind their functions have taken a back seat. Human beings have given priority to meeting their needs at the expense of the resources that nature offers us. And to do this, it is essential to cut down millions of trees every year.
Cutting down trees is a problem when this cutting down is uncontrolled, that is, when we are not going to be able to repopulate the trees that we have destroyed.
There are two main reasons for this. The first and most obvious is the number of trees felled, which is far greater than the number planted. And the second reason is that many times we destroy the forest to turn it into roads, houses or commercial buildings so it is not feasible to repopulate that land.
This situation can reach its limit because nature’s resources are limited.
If we do not stop deforestation, the day will come when reversing the situation will be impossible.
Causes of deforestation:
Natural: floods, volcanic eruptions, wildfires, earthquakes or even tsunamis. But this is a small part, they do not cause even 5% of the total deforestation.
Non-natural: the non-natural causes are those derived from human activity, among them, we find:
Use of land for building: as we said before, the increase in the world’s population means we need more space to build new homes. The solution is to cut down trees and build new houses or roads connecting cities.
Use of wood for all kinds of items: such as paper sheets, home furniture, accessories or fuel.
Production of ingredients: as with palm oil, which is found in most foods. Some of them we would never have thought about; in pre-cooked and frozen food, in industrial pastries, in cleaning products, personal hygiene, cosmetics, candles…
Increase in the size of farms: this is a consequence of the increase in population. As there is more demand, farmers need more space to meet the supply and cover the orders.
Fires: the number of arson attacks is increasing every year. In addition, due to the drought they spread more easily and are more difficult to control. The consequences are devastating, millions of hectares lost to fire.
All these causes have direct consequences. Let us now see which ones we are talking about:
Its main effects:
Loss of forests: Deforestation is leading to a loss of forests. It also leaves the soil arid and loses its quality.
Extinction of species: both plants and animals. Once they are extinct, we will never be able to recover them. The animals that survive, are forced to adapt to their new habitat or find a new home. With the consequent displacement of species.
Climate change is increasing: as there are fewer trees, the capacity to clean the air of carbon dioxide is reduced, the production of oxygen and the temperature increases. In short, the planet is deteriorating faster.
How can we avoid deforestation?
The most effective solution, but the most difficult, is to stop massive tree felling. The economic interest is too great for this to happen.
However, governments can establish plans to cut more wisely, by reducing logging and planting more trees.
Buy responsibly: as we have said before, one of the causes of deforestation is demand. We will take a very important step if we change our buying habits and demand more products that come from sustainable and respectful production.
For its part, the government can also create awareness and education campaigns. Promote responsible consumption and environmentally friendly production.
In this way, together, we can put an end to this great problem that threatens the planet, the loss of our forests.