What effect does deforestation have on atmospheric CO2 levels?

Deforestation significantly raises atmospheric CO2 levels primarily due to the reduction of trees that play a crucial role in carbon sequestration. Trees absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, thus removing it from the atmosphere and storing it as carbon in their biomass. When trees are cut down or burned, the stored carbon is released back into the atmosphere as CO2, contributing to increased greenhouse gas concentrations.

Moreover, the loss of forest cover reduces the overall capacity of the land to absorb CO2, leading to a net increase in atmospheric CO2 levels. This process amplifies the greenhouse effect, consequently affecting global climate change. The intricate relationship between forests and carbon cycling highlights the critical importance of preserving these ecosystems for maintaining healthier atmospheric conditions.