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.
| 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.
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 Combined Science (8464) specification · Updated October 2026