Deforestation is a global environmental issue that has significant effects on the biodiversity of the world. The manufacturing industry is a major player in deforestation as it needs access to raw materials, such as wood, palm oil and soy, for producing a wide range of products. Deforestation in the manufacturing industry leads to biodiversity loss with far-reaching consequences that can result in the extinction of species, ecological imbalance, and climate change.
Forests provide habitats for numerous plant and animal species. Deforestation destroys these habitats leading to the loss of biodiversity. Disruption of the ecosystem, and ecological balance can have disastrous effects. For example, the Amazon Rainforest is home to over 2.5 million species of insects, animals, and plants, some of which are not found anywhere else in the world. However, as a result of deforestation, the Amazon is losing its biodiversity and with it the unique features that make it such an important ecological system.
Deforestation also impacts climate change as forests act as carbon sinks by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. With deforestation, the carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere leading to an increase in greenhouse gases thus leading to global warming. Climate change due to deforestation can further exacerbate biodiversity loss. This is because rising temperatures can alter the ecological systems which some species depend on to survive.
The effects of deforestation on biodiversity loss aren't limited to animals living in forests. The loss of biodiversity can have a domino effect, leading to loss of vital ecosystem services such as the provision of clean water and air, nutrient cycling and soil formation. The loss of these ecosystem services can lead to dire consequences for human health and well-being.
Ultimately, the manufacturing industry must adopt more sustainable practices to prevent further deforestation and biodiversity loss. This can be achieved by reducing the use of raw materials from forests and finding alternative sources of raw materials, such as using recycled materials or implementing regenerative agriculture practices. Supporting companies that engage in sustainable practices, increasing awareness and advocating for forest conservation policies can also go a long way in preventing deforestation and biodiversity loss in the manufacturing industry.