The formal definition of Deforestation is the conversion of forested areas to non-forested. Basically, that means taking a place with a large number of trees and cutting them all down. It also means the loss or continual degradation of forest habitat due to either natural or human related causes. Historically, this meant conversion to grassland or to grain fields; however, the Industrial Revolution added urbanization and technological uses for trees. If the current rate of deforestation continues, the world’s rain forests will vanish within 100 years, which would cause unknown effects on global climate and destroy biodiversity by eliminating the majority of plant and animal species on our planet. The rainforests are notorious for many medical cures. With the elimination of the rainforests, we may be eradicating future medical advancements.
Causes include demand for farmland and fuel wood. Underlining causes could include poverty and lack of reform. The causes of deforestation are complex and change over time. A proposed solution to deforestation is to reduce consumption of forest-based products. Switching to brick, stone, concrete, fiberglass, and plastic for construction, or the use of hemp for paper products are options often considered. However, these options do present their own downsides. Some of these options require fossil fuels for their construction. In addition, most of these materials tend to degrade much more slowly than paper. Conversion of forestlands to agricultural lands to produce hemp can cause deforestation itself. What do you all think?
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I think recycling is a good option, particularly for the production of paper.