Deforestation and land-use changes can lead to:

Microclimate variations
Soil erosion
Increased risk of landslides
All of the above

Deforestation and land-use changes can lead to all of the above.

  • Microclimate variations: Trees help to regulate the temperature and humidity of the air around them. When trees are removed, the microclimate can change, becoming hotter and drier. This can have a negative impact on plants and animals that rely on the cooler, more humid conditions.
  • Soil erosion: Trees help to hold soil in place. When trees are removed, the soil is more likely to be eroded by wind and water. This can lead to the loss of topsoil, which is essential for plant growth.
  • Increased risk of landslides: Trees help to stabilize slopes. When trees are removed, the slopes are more likely to collapse, leading to landslides. Landslides can damage property and infrastructure, and can also be deadly.

In addition to these direct impacts, deforestation and land-use changes can also have a number of indirect impacts, such as climate change, water pollution, and biodiversity loss.