Which activity is a main cause of deforestation?

Cattle ranching is a primary cause of deforestation primarily because it involves clearing large areas of forested land to create pastures for livestock. This process not only removes the trees that are crucial for carbon sequestration and biodiversity but also leads to soil erosion and the disruption of local ecosystems. The demand for beef has led to significant expansions of ranching operations, particularly in regions such as the Amazon rainforest, where vast tracts of forest are converted for cattle grazing.

In contrast, urban gardening, tree planting programs, and forest preservation efforts are activities designed to promote environmental health rather than harm it. Urban gardening typically focuses on small-scale agriculture within urban areas, tree planting programs aim to replenish forested areas and enhance biodiversity, and forest preservation efforts seek to protect existing forests from development or deforestation. Understanding these distinctions is vital in recognizing the impact of various human activities on forests worldwide.