THE EFFECTS OF DEFORESTATION ON GLOBAL CARBON CYCLES AND CLIMATE CHANGE

Abstract

Deforestation, the widespread removal of forests for agriculture, logging, and urban development, has profound implications for global carbon cycles and climate change. Forests act as significant carbon sinks, absorbing and storing carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere. The destruction of forests not only releases this stored carbon back into the atmosphere but also diminishes the Earth's capacity to absorb future emissions. This article examines the effects of deforestation on global carbon cycles, its role in exacerbating climate change, and the long-term environmental consequences. The article focuses on the direct and indirect effects of deforestation on atmospheric CO₂ levels, biodiversity, and climate patterns, with a particular emphasis on regions like Pakistan, where deforestation rates are increasing. We also explore strategies to mitigate the impacts of deforestation, including reforestation, sustainable land-use practices, and policy recommendations to curb deforestation and its contribution to global climate change.