What is one consequence of slash and burn agriculture?

Slash and burn agriculture is a traditional farming method that involves cutting and burning vegetation to clear land for cultivation. One significant consequence of this practice is deforestation, as large areas of forest are destroyed to create agricultural space. This loss of trees can have dire effects on biodiversity, as many species lose their habitats, and it destabilizes ecosystems.

Furthermore, the burning process releases significant amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which contributes to climate change. The reduction of trees also diminishes the Earth's capacity to absorb CO2, exacerbating the effects of global warming. This makes the practice critically linked to environmental challenges, highlighting the importance of sustainable agricultural methods that balance food production with forest conservation.