It is process of removal of forest resources due to natural or manmade activities (i.e.) destruction of forests.
Causes of deforestation:
1.Developmental projects: Developmental projects causes deforestation through two ways.
- Through submergence of forest area.
- Destruction of forest area.
- Ex: big dams, hydro electric projects, road construction etc.
2.Mining operations: It reduces forest areas. Ex: Mica, coal, Manganese and lime stone.
3.Raw materials for industries: Wood is an important raw material for various purposes. Ex: Making boxes, furniture and paper etc.
4.Fuel requirement: Wood is the important fuel for rural and tribal population.
5.Shifting cultivation: Replacement of natural forest ecosystem for mono specific tree plantation. Ex: Teak
Consequences of deforestation (or) impacts of deforestation:
1. Economic loss
2. Loss of biodiversity
3. Destructs the habitats of various species
4. Increases the rate of global warming
5. Disruption of weather patterns and global climate
6. Degradation of soil and acceleration of the rate of soil erosion.
7. Induces and accelerates mass movement / land slides.
8. Increases flood frequency, magnitude / severity
PREVENTIVE MEASURES (OR) AVOID OF DEFORESTATION (OR) METHODS OF CONSERVATION OF FORESTS:
1. New plants of more or less of the same variety should be planted to replace the trees cut down for timber
2. Use of wood for fuel should be discouraged.
3. Forest pests can be controlled by spraying pesticides by using aero planes
4. Forest fire must be controlled by modern techniques.
5. Over grazing by cattle must be controlled.
6. Steps should be taken by the government to discourage the migration of people into the islands from mainland.
7. Education and awareness programmes must be conducted.
8. Strict implementation of law of Forest conservation Act.
