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Deforestation

Definition

Deforestation refers to the clearing, removal, or destruction of forests on a large scale. It involves the permanent conversion of forested areas into non-forest land for various purposes such as agriculture, logging, urbanization, and infrastructure development.

Analogy

Imagine a beautiful puzzle made of trees in a forest. Deforestation is like someone taking away puzzle pieces one by one until there's nothing left but empty spaces.

Related terms

Clear-cutting: Clear-cutting is a method of deforestation where all trees in an area are cut down at once, leaving no trees standing.

Slash-and-burn: Slash-and-burn is a technique that involves cutting down and burning vegetation to clear land for cultivation or other purposes.

Illegal logging: Illegal logging refers to the harvesting, transporting, buying or selling of timber in violation of national laws and regulations.