What is pollution caused by deforestation?
What Pollution Results From Deforestation
Deforestation contributes significantly to air pollution and climate change:
When forests are cleared, the stored carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere, and the trees lose their ability to sequester carbon dioxide. Worldwide, deforestation accounts for about 15% of total greenhouse gas emissions.
Deforestation increases the risk of forest fires, which release toxic pollutants and greenhouse gases into the air. In 2015, Indonesia surpassed the US and Canada in greenhouse gas emissions due to deforestation for palm oil plantations.
Forests are essential for clean air. Through photosynthesis, trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. One large tree can produce enough oxygen for four people per day. Deforestation removes this natural air filtration system.
Deforestation disrupts the water cycle by decreasing precipitation and affecting river flow. Cutting down trees can lead to desertification and soil erosion.
Deforestation makes air pollution worse by removing trees that filter out particulate matter (PM) and other pollutants. Bad air quality leads to millions of deaths annually from lung and heart diseases.
In summary, deforestation is a major driver of air pollution and climate change through the release of greenhouse gases, increased risk of wildfires, and the loss of trees that naturally clean the air and regulate the water cycle. Protecting forests is crucial for improving air quality and mitigating climate change.
– Written By Glenda
