The large-scale removal of trees from forests for human benefits is called deforestation.
It creates clear land for agricultural and construction purposes.
A few important consequences of deforestation are as follows:
Loss of biodiversity - Cutting down trees leads to loss of habitat for many animals and birds and those species which are unable to live outside a forest environment face extinction.
Climate change - Deforestation increases greenhouse gases present in the atmosphere causing global warming and an increased rate of floods.
Changes in soil - Deforestation also leads to increased soil erosion by wind and rain, leading to loss of nutrients in the soil and making the soil infertile.
Impact on humans - Felling trees reduce the availability of wood for cooking and heating purposes.