# Deforestation is carried out on a large scale in many parts of the world. Explain how deforestation contributes to an increase in the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

> Eduqas A-Level Biology — 3.6 Human impact on the environment · Explain · 5 marks

> Millions of hectares of forest are cut down each year. Trees are often burned after felling, or left to decay. This has significant consequences for the carbon cycle and global climate.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Trees/plants absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis
2. Fewer trees means less carbon dioxide is removed from the atmosphere
3. Burning trees/wood releases carbon dioxide
4. Decay/decomposition of dead trees/plant material releases carbon dioxide
5. The overall effect is that carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere increase, contributing to the enhanced greenhouse effect/global warming

## Key terms

- [deforestation](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/deforestation)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas A-Level Biology](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/deforestation-is-carried-out-on-a-b0679e1b) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.