Discuss how one of the following could impact on the landscape: - Deforestation - Coastal management - Flood control - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 1 - 2007

Deforestation impacts the landscape primarily through habitat destruction and alteration of local ecosystems. When trees are removed, the balance of the ecosystem is disrupted, leading to several consequences:

1. Soil Erosion: Without tree root systems to anchor soil, the landscape becomes susceptible to erosion. Rainwater can wash away the topsoil, which is crucial for plant growth, thereby degrading the land's productivity.

2. Loss of Biodiversity: Deforestation leads to habitat loss for many species. As forests are cleared, wildlife is forced to migrate, which can result in population declines or extinction.

3. Climate Change: Trees play a significant role in carbon sequestration, which helps to mitigate climate change. Their removal increases the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect.

4. Hydrological Changes: Forests play a critical role in maintaining the water cycle by facilitating rainfall and maintaining groundwater levels. When deforestation occurs, local climates can change, leading to reduced rainfall and altered water sources.

These impacts illustrate how deforestation alters both the physical landscape and the ecological dynamics of the region.