Forests provide homes for 80% of all land-based plant and animal species. When they are removed, these species lose their habitats and can’t survive. The loss of trees also reduces soil nutrients, and causes erosion which damages water quality. This can lead to a number of environmental problems including flooding, decreased biodiversity and increased levels of greenhouse gases.
The most widespread cause of deforestation is the conversion of forests to farmland. Large-scale farming of crops like cattle ranching and soy or palm oil requires massive areas of land to grow, requiring the clearing of forests to make room for them. In addition, smaller farmers using traditional methods of agriculture often deforest land by slashing and burning to create agricultural fields.
Other sources of deforestation include mining operations and infrastructure development, such as roads. Deforestation can even be caused by accidental fires, especially in dry forests or areas that have been logged previously.
All of this deforestation directly impacts wildlife. Animals rely on forests for shelter, food, and safety from predators. Without the trees, animals may be forced out of their natural habitats and into dangerous territory where they don’t have a chance to find food or breed. It can also force them to adapt to new environments which could lead to a higher risk of disease, or even extinction. This is particularly true for animals that are endemic to a region, such as the rainforest or a lake. These are unique species that fill a single niche within their ecosystem and are often found nowhere else in the world.