The Consequences of Deforestation and the Mitigation Measures (Essay Sample)

The Consequences of Deforestation and Mitigation Measures
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The Consequences of Deforestation and Mitigation Measures
Trees are essential components of the environment as they provide a cooling shade to human beings and animals. Ornamental trees beautify homes and freshen the air by consuming carbon dioxide (CO2) and releasing oxygen through photosynthesis. Forests also help prevent soil erosion on steep slopes and reduce storm damage on coastlines. FAO report states that forests cover 31% of the world’s surface area and are disappearing rapidly, which is a cause for concern (The State of the World’s Forests, 2020). Urbanization is one of the most significant contributors to deforestation. Deforestation has various adverse effects on the environment, and key among them is its contribution to global warming and soil erosion.
Deforestation reduces carbon sinks, thus contributing to global warming and climate change. Trees usually absorb CO2 from the atmosphere via stomata to make their food through photosynthesis. Therefore, cutting down trees removes the sink for CO2 gas, leaving it with nowhere to go but to stay in the atmosphere. Since CO2 is a greenhouse gas, it traps heat