DeforestationSpec 4.7.3.4
In short
Deforestation is the large-scale clearing of forests, which in tropical areas has occurred to provide land for cattle and rice fields and to grow crops for biofuels. It reduces biodiversity because habitats are destroyed. It also increases carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, because fewer trees means less photosynthesis, and the decay and burning of the trees release carbon dioxide.
Large-scale deforestation in tropical areas has occurred to:
- provide land for cattle and rice fields
- grow crops for biofuels.
Environmental implications of deforestation| Implication | Why |
|---|
| Loss of biodiversity | The habitat is destroyed, so many species lose their food and shelter and die out |
|---|
| More carbon dioxide in the atmosphere | Fewer trees means less photosynthesis, so less carbon dioxide is removed. Decay and burning of the trees release carbon dioxide |
|---|
| Contribution to global warming | Higher carbon dioxide levels contribute to global warming |
|---|
Cleared land can provide food and fuel crops, so there is a conflict between the economic needs of people and protecting the environment.
Exam tip:To evaluate, state a benefit (land for cattle, rice or biofuel crops), then the environmental costs (less biodiversity, more carbon dioxide), then give a judgement.
Written and checked against the AQA GCSE Biology (8461) specification · Updated October 2026
Frequently asked questions
Why is biodiversity important to ecosystems?
Biodiversity is important because a great biodiversity ensures the stability of ecosystems. With many different species, each species depends less on any one other species for food, shelter and the maintenance of the physical environment. The future of the human species on Earth also relies on us maintaining a good level of biodiversity.
How does deforestation affect the carbon cycle?
Deforestation increases the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Fewer trees means less photosynthesis, so less carbon dioxide is removed from the air, and the decay and burning of the cleared trees release more carbon dioxide. Higher carbon dioxide levels contribute to global warming, and destroying the forest habitat also reduces biodiversity.
What are the biological consequences of global warming?
The biological consequences of global warming include loss of habitats as ice melts or rising sea levels flood low-lying areas, changes in the distribution of species as organisms move to cooler areas, and changes in the migration patterns of animals. Some species cannot adapt or move and may die out, which reduces biodiversity.
All 4 questions on Biodiversity and the effect of human interaction on ecosystems
