Deforestation is the removal of forests and other woodlands, and can be a result of many different things. One of the biggest reasons is commercial logging and timber extraction. This involves cutting down trees to be used for construction, paper, furniture, and other products. Global demand has risen for these wood products, which has led to unsustainable levels of deforestation around the world.
Another cause is land conversion for agriculture. A growing global population means more food needs to be produced. This often requires clearing forests for farmland or pastures. For example, palm oil production in Sumatra and Borneo has pushed orangutans to the brink of extinction due to habitat loss. Other agricultural reasons for deforestation include cattle ranching and cultivation of crops like soybeans, rice, and cotton. These kinds of farming practices have a huge impact on biodiversity, soil fertility, and carbon sequestration.
Climate change is also a leading cause of deforestation. When trees are removed from the planet, it disrupts the natural carbon cycle, which can increase greenhouse gas emissions and lead to climate change.
Another big reason for deforestation is infrastructure development. Cities and towns continue to expand, and they need more land for houses, roads, and other facilities. This has caused the need for a great deal of deforestation worldwide, especially in Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa. The lack of forest cover also leaves wildlife vulnerable to poaching. When animals are displaced from their natural habitats, it can also lead to human-wildlife conflict, which can be dangerous for both parties.