Question

Deforestation has indirectly led to an increase in air pollution. Explain.

Answer 1

When forests are cleared, the trees that normally remove large amounts of carbon dioxide through photosynthesis are lost, so more CO₂ remains in the atmosphere and contributes to the greenhouse effect and poorer air quality; this upset of the natural carbon balance is a major indirect path by which deforestation raises air pollution. Clearing and burning vegetation also release large quantities of carbon and fine particulate matter directly into the air, while common practices after deforestation, like open burning of residues, add smoke and hazardous particulates that travel far from the source. Finally, removing tree cover exposes topsoil to wind erosion, producing dust and airborne particles that further increase particulate pollution and reduce air quality.