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Deforestation is a double edged sword. Explain the truth of this statement hence showing how development and growing population has caused deforestation and its effects...

      

Deforestation is a double edged sword. Explain the truth of this statement hence showing how development and growing population has caused deforestation and its effects on environment.

  

Answers


Ruth
One particular problem caused by over-exploitation of natural resources is
deforestation, which occurs when forest areas are cleared and the trees are not
replanted or allowed to regrow. Clearing land for agriculture to meet the
food needs of the growing population and the demand for fuel and construction
materials has resulted in a steady loss of forest area, which is still continuing.

Today, many farmers are encouraged to do agriculture which is economically advantageous and provides steady flow of food and industrial raw materials. This leads to growth of gross domestic product and also creates raw materials and products for exports.
For the farmers to get enough land for cultivation, they clear forests to get enough field to grow more food crops and cash crops hence causing deforestation .

The loss of forest has several undesirable consequences. Forests are home to many
different types of trees, as well as other plants, and a wide range of animals from
insects to birds and mammals. The conversion of forests to agriculture greatly reduces
biodiversity, which is a measure of the variety of living organisms. Biodiversity is
important for humans because we use other living organisms to provide several
essentials: Deforestation is a significant contributory cause of soil erosion. Once the
trees and undergrowth are removed, the underlying ground is exposed. Loss of forests
also has a significant impact on water supply. Tree roots reach deep into the soil and
create spaces between the particles which increases soil permeability, allowing
rainwater to soak in and replenish groundwater.

In conclusion, deforestation is a double adged sword which cuts both side, thus some plants cant grow well where there is shade of trees that needs to be cut for them to grow and give high yields, while on the other hand, cutting the trees causes deforestation and soil erosion hence costing the agricultural sector.
NatalieR answered the question on June 7, 2022 at 10:10


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