When humans clear forested land, they gain something, but they also harm the natural environment. Explain the trade-off that is occurs.

Answer:

When people clear forests, they gain land for farming, grazing, homes, roads, or businesses, and they may also obtain timber and jobs. The trade-off is that clearing destroys and fragments wildlife habitat, which can reduce biodiversity and threaten species. With fewer trees, soil is more exposed to erosion and less able to retain water. Cutting or burning forests also releases stored carbon and reduces the forest’s ability to absorb carbon dioxide. People gain useful land and resources, but the natural environment loses important habitats and ecosystem functions.