Explain why clear-cutting is a more destructive method of wood harvesting than selective cutting.

Answer 1

Clear-cutting is considered a more destructive method of wood harvesting than selective cutting because it involves removing all trees in a particular area, which completely disrupts the ecosystem and destroys the habitat of animals and plants in the area. Clear-cutting leads to soil erosion, landslides, and loss of biodiversity. Moreover, it results in the emission of greenhouse gases because of the decomposition of the felled trees, and the loss of forest cover affects the absorption of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. In contrast, selective cutting involves removing only mature and commercially valuable trees, allowing younger trees to grow and protecting the ecosystem. Thus, selective cutting is a more sustainable and responsible approach to wood harvesting that minimizes the environmental impact.