Deforestation is the process by which a heavily tree-filled area becomes devoid of trees. This can occur in a variety of circumstances both natural and man-made, and often severely impacts the local environment. Deforestation can lead to serious effects on the surrounding ecosystem, and many experts believe it can also have a negative effect on the global environment.

One of the major effects of deforestation is loss of biodiversity. Trees and forested areas can provide food and habitats to an enormous amount of plant and animal life. Any basic tree can provide high branches for birds, vegetation for insects and animals to eat, shelter for shade-plants and burrows for animals such as squirrels and foxes, as well as beneficial nutrients for the soil. When deforestation occurs, a high percentage of local plants and animals will disappear, as the environment cannot support their existence. According to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN), many species face extinction primarily due to deforestation.

Unfortunately, many of the major areas suffering from deforestation also possess the most life-filled environments on the planet. The Amazon Rainforest in South America is considered to be one of the biggest hotbeds of species diversity on Earth, yet the fertile and immense forests are a major target for lumber and industrial clearing. Experts from the IUCN, World Wildlife Fund and other environmentalist groups believe that data shows the planet has already lost hundreds or thousands of species largely due to the effects of deforestation, and may lose thousands more.

Local climate change is also believed to be one of the major effects of deforestation. Tree cover creates moist soil, as sunlight cannot filter through to the ground directly. When trees are removed, soil begins to dry more quickly, and local temperatures increase due to lack of shade. Some experts believe that deforestation can lead to a massive increase in desert terrain, as soil deprived of constant moisture will eventually turn into largely barren sand.

One of the more frightening effects of deforestation raises global concern. Trees contribute greatly to human existence by converting hazardous carbon dioxide into breathable oxygen. Not only does deforestation impact this natural process, but the burning of trees common in deforestation releases large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, adding to the greenhouse gas effect and possibly impacting global warming.

If you are concerned about the effects of deforestation and wish to help prevent the destruction of Earth’s forests, consider donating your time or resources to a reputable environmental group dedicated to fighting deforestation. On a more basic level, consider avoiding goods and services from corporations that profit from unsustainable deforestation. Since the dawn of the 21st century, many companies have made environmentally sustainable practices a key goal in their operations, and the fight against deforestation may be greatly impacted by your choices to support businesses that use green and environmentally safe industries.