Deforestation
Global Deforestation Facts
4.2% Tree Loss In 1990-2020
Over 420 million hectares of forest have been lost since 1990. Between 1990-2010 an average of 15.5 million hectares of forest were destroyed every year. In 2022, over 12 million hectares of tropical tree cover was lost.
Rainforest Loss Up in 2022
In 2022, the tropics experienced a 10% increase in primary rainforest loss compared to the previous year, as reported by the University of Maryland data accessible through WRI's Global Forest Watch.
Causes Biodiversity Loss
Deforestation causes approximately $2 trillion to $4.5 trillion in lost biodiversity each year. 137 different species of plants, animals, and birds are lost every single day due to global forest loss.
Why It Happened
Forests are cleared for crops, livestock, housing, and industrial activities. Economic growth and consumer demand drive these activities, often at the expense of environmental sustainability.
How It Impacts
Atmospheric carbon dioxide increases, contributing to global warming and raising ocean temperatures. Warmer waters favor jellyfish, allowing them to thrive while many of their predators cannot survive.
What Can We Do
Create a home garden which can absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. Participate in tree-planting initiatives and support reforestation projects.
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