Deforestation has a significant impact on climate and atmospheric composition, primarily contributing to global warming through several mechanisms:
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Decreases the Removal of Carbon Dioxide: Trees and plants play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere during photosynthesis. When forests are cleared, this carbon sink is eliminated, leading to a higher concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere. Since CO2 is a greenhouse gas, its increase contributes to the greenhouse effect and global warming.
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Releases More Carbon Dioxide: Additionally, when trees are cut down and burned or decay, the carbon stored in their biomass is released back into the atmosphere as CO2. This further exacerbates the problem, as it not only eliminates the capacity of forests to sequester carbon but also adds to the existing carbon levels.
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Increases the Presence of Methane: Deforestation can also lead to increased methane (CH4) emissions. For example, if forests are converted into agricultural land or if wetlands are drained, the decomposition of organic matter can produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
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Ozone Production: While deforestation does not directly decrease ozone production in the stratosphere, changes in land use can influence the lower atmosphere's chemical interactions. Deforestation can lead to increased ground-level ozone formation, a harmful air pollutant and greenhouse gas, as emissions from vehicles and industrial activities interact with sunlight and other pollutants.
Overall, the combined effect of these factors contributes to an increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, leading to enhanced warming of the planet.