What is the impact of deforestation on sustainability?

The impact of deforestation on sustainability is significant, and the choice that states it contributes to habitat loss and climate change accurately reflects the broader consequences of this practice. Deforestation leads to the destruction of forests, which are vital ecosystems that provide a home for countless species of plants and animals. When these habitats are removed, many species are left without shelter or food, leading to a decline in biodiversity as they either adapt to the changing environment or face extinction.

Additionally, forests play a crucial role in carbon sequestration; they absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. When trees are cut down, not only is this carbon storage capacity lost, but the carbon stored in trees is also released back into the atmosphere, exacerbating climate change. This alters weather patterns, increases the frequency and severity of natural disasters, and contributes to global warming, further threatening both survival of species and human society.

In contrast, the other options present misunderstandings about the outcomes of deforestation. While biodiversity is often increased in managed or cultivated ecosystems, widespread deforestation typically leads to its decline. Deforestation does not improve air quality; in fact, it can increase levels of air pollutants. Lastly, soil fertility often suffers due to the removal of trees that provide essential nutrients and stabilize soil