How Deforestation Contributes to Climate Change — Reading Comprehension

Deforestation is when large areas of forests are cut down or removed, often to make space for farming, roads, or buildings. Forests cover about 31% of the Earth’s land. They play a very important role in keeping the planet healthy.

Trees and other plants use a process called photosynthesis to take in carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the air. During photosynthesis, trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. This helps reduce the amount of carbon dioxide, which is a main greenhouse gas that traps heat in the atmosphere.

When forests are cut down, there are fewer trees left to absorb carbon dioxide. This means more carbon dioxide stays in the atmosphere, which can cause the Earth’s temperature to rise. This process is called global warming, and it is a big part of climate change. Climate change can lead to problems like stronger storms, rising sea levels, and droughts.

Deforestation doesn’t just stop trees from absorbing carbon dioxide. When trees are burned or left to rot, the carbon stored in their wood is released back into the air as carbon dioxide. This adds even more greenhouse gases to the atmosphere.

One real-world example is the Amazon Rainforest in South America. It is sometimes called the “lungs of the Earth” because it holds so many trees. When large parts of the Amazon are cleared for cattle ranching or farming, huge amounts of carbon dioxide are released, making climate change worse around the world.

People can help fight climate change by protecting forests, planting new trees, and using land more carefully. Scientists, governments, and everyday people all have a role in stopping deforestation and reducing greenhouse gases.

Interesting Fact: The world loses about 10 million hectares of forests every year, which is about the size of 27 soccer fields every minute!

What is deforestation?

Which gas do trees remove from air?

What is a greenhouse gas?

Why does deforestation cause more CO2 in air?

How can people help stop climate change?

What happens if trees are burned?

Deforestation helps lower greenhouse gases. True or false?

What is the 'lungs of the Earth'?