Environmental Science
How Deforestation Alters Regional Rainfall Patterns
Quick fact
The Amazon rainforest creates about half of its own rainfall through evapotranspiration; deforestation there could reduce rainfall by up to 30% in some regions.
Why this is interesting
We know trees absorb carbon dioxide, but did you know your morning coffee might depend on a forest's ability to make its own rain? Cutting down forests can actually weaken the region's water cycle.