Four Consequences of Deforestation

Deforestation is a global issue, which puts large rainforests, wildlife and the ecosystem at risk. The consequences of deforestation have significant implications for the biology, geography and society in and around these reservations. Forest resources are necessary for societal expansion; though destroying these landmasses can affect the natural balance of the world for years to come.

Geographical

• A primary geographical effect of deforestation is forest fragmentation. The separation of forest landmass disrupts the habitat of wildlife in that area. Richard Spilsbury, author of "Deforestation Crisis" states road construction, plantations and settlements force isolation among animals and plants. For instance, forest fragmentation reduces the chances for parrots, which cannot fly for long distances, to find other parrots for breeding. Forest fragmentation does not reduce forest area; though human plantations built over frontier forests are not suitable for wildlife habitats. The conversion of frontier forests in Finland has endangered more than 700 animal species.

Biodiversity

• Many wildlife species are sensitive to microhabitats. According to Rebecca Lindsey, author of "Tropical Deforestation," several animals and plants are vulnerable to extinction because of deforestation. Mature rainforest trees die from hot winds and dry spells at the forest's barren edges. Deforestation also destroys undiscovered genes of plants, fungi and animals, which could lead to cures for cancer. Many current medical applications originate from materials from the rainforest, such as malaria medicine, muscle relaxants and anesthetics.

Soil

• Tropical forest soil is thin and lack nutrients. In "Deforestation Crisis," Spillsbury wrote that high temperatures and heavy rains wash minerals from the soil. The forest depends on the natural nutrients produced by animal decomposition and plant by-products. Deforestation destroys the soil because of the effects of burning; as farmers burn the trees to create an ash-based fertilizer, the original nutrients are permanently lost. Within a few years, the soil won't support crops because of increasing soil erosion.

Social

• The social effects of deforestation are between people, animals and other people native to the forests. Richard Spilsbury said deforestation increases the conflict between animals and people. As animals search for new sources of food, they damage farming settlements. In retaliation, people kill these animals to protect their crops. According to "Tropical Deforestation," tropical forests are home to various forest natives; deforestation could be seen as a modern form of forced colonization -- driving away these people from their homes and livelihood.