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Context

• According to Global Forest Watch, India has lost approximately 2.33 million hectares of tree cover since 2000.

Details of the report

• Data Analysis: The analysis, based on satellite data, reveals significant deforestation and degradation of tree cover across the country over the past two decades.
• Causes of Loss: Factors contributing to tree cover loss include deforestation for agriculture, infrastructure development, urbanization, and industrial activities.
• Environmental Impact: The loss of tree cover has detrimental effects on biodiversity, ecosystems, and the climate, exacerbating issues such as habitat loss, soil erosion, and carbon emissions.
• Regional Variations: While some regions have experienced substantial tree cover loss, others have shown signs of reforestation or afforestation efforts.

Environmental impact of tree cover loss in India with examples:

• Loss of Biodiversity: Tree cover loss in India leads to habitat destruction, which threatens the biodiversity of various plant and animal species. For example, deforestation in the Western Ghats has resulted in the loss of habitat for endemic species like the Lion-tailed macaque and the Malabar giant squirrel.
• Soil Erosion: Trees play a crucial role in preventing soil erosion by stabilizing the soil with their roots. When trees are removed, especially on slopes or in areas with heavy rainfall, soil erosion becomes more severe. An example is the erosion of fertile soil in the Himalayan region due to deforestation for agricultural expansion.
• Climate Change: Trees absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere, mitigating climate change by acting as carbon sinks. Deforestation leads to increased CO2 levels in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming. For instance, the loss of mangrove forests along the coast of India contributes to rising sea levels and coastal erosion, exacerbating the impacts of climate change.
• Disruption of Water Cycles: Trees play a vital role in regulating the water cycle by absorbing and releasing water through transpiration. Deforestation disrupts this cycle, leading to changes in rainfall patterns, decreased groundwater recharge, and increased risk of flooding and droughts. An example is the loss of tree cover in the Western Ghats, which affects rainfall patterns in the region and the availability of water for agriculture and drinking purposes.
• Loss of Ecosystem Services: Trees provide various ecosystem services, including air purification, water filtration, and pollination. Tree cover loss reduces these services, leading to degraded air and water quality and reduced agricultural productivity. For example, deforestation in the Eastern Ghats results in decreased soil fertility and increased water pollution, impacting the livelihoods of local communities dependent on agriculture and natural resources.

Source:

https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-lost-2-33-million-hectares-of-tree-cover-since-2000-global-forest-watch-5428639

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