What is the impact of deforestation on global warming?

Deforestation has a significant impact on global warming primarily because it reduces the number of trees that absorb carbon dioxide (CO2). Trees play a critical role in the carbon cycle by taking in CO2 during photosynthesis and releasing oxygen. When large areas of forest are cleared, not only is this capacity diminished, but the carbon stored in the trees is often released back into the atmosphere, either through burning or decomposition. This excess CO2 contributes to the greenhouse effect, trapping heat in the atmosphere and leading to an increase in global temperatures. Additionally, fewer trees mean less overall carbon sequestration, exacerbating the greenhouse gas concentrations and accelerating climate change. Understanding this relationship illustrates the importance of preserving forests in efforts to mitigate global warming.