Journal de la biodiversité, de la bioprospection et du développement

The Effects of Deforestation on the Global Carbon Balance and Climate Stability

Abstract

Viviana Ceccarelli

Deforestation is a significant environmental issue with profound impacts on the global carbon balance and climate stability. This article explores how the clearing of forests alters the carbon cycle, contributing to climate change. Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere, but deforestation releases this stored carbon, exacerbating greenhouse gas concentrations and contributing to global warming. This review examines the mechanisms through which deforestation influences carbon dynamics, including changes in land use, carbon emissions, and feedback loops affecting climate systems. We discuss the role of forests in sequestering carbon, the impact of their loss on atmospheric CO₂ levels, and the broader implications for climate stability. The review also highlights current research, identifies gaps in knowledge, and suggests potential strategies for mitigating the effects of deforestation. By synthesizing findings from recent studies, this article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between deforestation and climate change.