The given flow charts illustrate the consequences of deforestation, showing how clear-cutting of forests leads to a range of environmental problems.
In general, deforestation triggers several interconnected processes that damage soil quality, disrupt the water cycle, and ultimately result in reduced biodiversity. These effects occur through soil degradation, increased flooding and drought, as well as the loss of plants and animal life.
One major consequence of forest clearance is soil compaction caused by heaving logging machinery. As a result, the soil becomes hard and baked, preventing rainwater from soaking in. Instead, water runs off the surface, which increases the likelihood of flooding. At the same time, the removal of trees means that fewer roots are available to hold the topsoil together, leading to soil erosion.
Deforestation also raises the risk of forest fires, whether deliberately or accidentally. When waste wood from logging is destroyed, micro-organisms feeding that feed on this material are lost. Furthermore, with fewer trees releasing moisture into the air, precipitation decreases, causing more frequent droughts. These conditions allow pioneer species to replace original vegetation, degrading ecosystems and eventually leading to a significant decline in biodiversity.