Consequences of land degradation in the rainforest
New roads artificially divide the rainforest and this affects rainforest life. For example, a road can stop monkeys or other wildlife from travelling to gather food and in turn, distribute seeds to re-sow plants in the forest.
Land clearance for farming, transportation and mining can lead to deforestation. Hardwood trees take many years to grow so can be difficult to replace.
When soil is rich in nutrients. soils which make farming possible are quickly washed away when the forest is cleared. The Cyclic movements of nutrients such as calcium, potassium and magnesium within an ecosystem. is disrupted. If soil ends up in rivers, this can lead to flooding.
Loss of animal habitat occurs when trees are cut down, endangering animals and plant life - many native plants and animals are now close to When a type of plant or animal is wiped out forever..
Global climate is also affected through the loss of trees and the resulting enhanced The retention of heat in the atmosphere caused by the build-up of greenhouse gases..
Profits from large-scale farming and selling resources often go back to developed countries or large companies and do not benefit the rainforest communities.
The traditional way of life of indigenous people is destroyed as forests are cleared. This leads to increased When people move from one place to another. to urban areas. In turn this increases competition for jobs, homes and resources in the cities.