Deforestation: Overview

Photograph by Tomas Munita/AP Photos

Deforestation is clearing Earth's forests on a massive scale, often resulting in damage to the quality of the land.

Forests cover 30% of the land area on our planet. They produce vital oxygen and provide homes for people and wildlife. Many of the world’s most threatened and endangered animals live in forests, and 1.6 billion people rely on benefits forests offer, including food, fresh water, clothing, traditional medicine and shelter.