Key learning points

1. Deforestation disrupts the carbon cycle because less CO₂ is absorbed from the atmosphere for photosynthesis
2. CO₂ is a greenhouse gas in the atmosphere that enhances the greenhouse effect and contributes to climate change
3. Deforestation disrupts the water cycle because less water is absorbed and transpired
4. Deforestation leads to more surface runoff of water, increasing flooding and putting our food security at risk
5. Mitigation strategies include reforestation and legal protection of forests to prevent deforestation

Keywords

• Carbon cycle - a set of processes that transfer carbon between the atmosphere, organisms and Earth

• Deforestation - the removal of trees, often to use the land for agriculture or building

• Climate change - a long-term shift in weather patterns

• Food security - having reliable access to enough safe and nutritious food to meet the needs of the human population

• Water cycle - a set of processes that transfer water between the atmosphere, organisms and Earth

Common misconception