Deforestation contributes significantly to rising temperatures, causing health risks like heat deaths. A study indicates that between 2001 and 2020, substantial tree loss in tropical regions impacted millions globally. Researchers found that heat-related deaths occur mainly in Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America, highlighting an urgent public health crisis, especially for indigenous communities.
In Latin America, deforestation has led to the highest temperature increases, making local conditions very dangerous for some populations. Agriculture, mining, and logging all contribute to this issue, causing a rise in local temperatures due to the removal of trees that naturally cool the area.
While fewer people live in deforested areas in Latin America compared to Africa and Asia, the vulnerable communities there face significant health risks from extreme heat. Experts emphasize the need for renewed policies to combat deforestation, protect the environment, and promote public health through better land-use strategies.
Difficult words
- deforestation — The removal of trees from an area.
- temperature — How hot or cold something is.temperatures
- health — Condition of the body and mind.health risks
- community — A group of people living together.communities, indigenous communities
- crisis — A serious and urgent situation.
- agriculture — The practice of farming.
- logging — Cutting down trees for wood.
- impact — To have a strong effect on something.impacted
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What can be done to fight deforestation?
- How does deforestation affect local communities?
- Why is it important to protect indigenous communities?
- What are the global effects of rising temperatures?
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