Effects of Deforestation - Essay Example

Download file to see previous pages... Deforestation changes the geomorphologic, hydrological, and biochemical states of streams by decreasing vapor-transpiration on the land surface, hence river discharge and run-off. This leads to the elimination of huge percentage of earth’s native vegetation that significantly alters the hydrological and morphological characteristics of watershed areas. The discharge has increased over the years and computer simulations suggest that about two-thirds of the increase are due to deforestation (Coe et al. 119).Extensive destruction of vegetation in most cases leads to increased conflict between people and forest animals. This occurs when people plant crops near the habitats of these forest animals. The animals will destroy the crops or injure humans, who in turn attack and killing them. In addition, there is people-to-people conflict whereby settlers invade deforested lands bringing their culture and influences thus changing lives of the indigenous forest people. Deforestation has a negative effect on the ecosystem and the atmosphere (Spilsbury 26). It is evident that deforestation does not benefit anyone and has long-term effects. Clearing of forests may be due to social, economic or political reasons. Whatever the short-term benefits, the result is devastating. The effects of deforestation are quite evident globally irrespective of concerned authorities coming up appropriate conservation methods meant to curb deforestation through humanity’s ignorance proves to be a big hindrance. ...Download file to see next pagesRead More