Effect of Deforestation on Regional Rainfall Variability in Tropical Regions in Peru
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47672/ajcs.2499Keywords:
Deforestation, Regional, Rainfall Variability, Tropical RegionsAbstract
Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the effect of deforestation on regional rainfall variability in tropical regions in Peru.
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: The study found that the removal of forest cover disrupts the water cycle, as forests play a crucial role in evapotranspiration, where trees release moisture into the atmosphere, contributing to cloud formation and precipitation. With deforestation, the reduction in moisture release leads to lower rainfall and increased dryness in affected areas. This alteration in rainfall patterns can exacerbate drought conditions and reduce water availability for both ecosystems and agriculture. Additionally, deforestation has been linked to more extreme weather patterns, including irregular and unpredictable rainfall events, further destabilizing the regional climate in tropical zones.
Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Biogeophysical feedback theory, hydrological cycle disruption theory and land-atmosphere interaction theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the effect of deforestation on regional rainfall variability in tropical regions in Peru. Implement sustainable land management practices that balance agricultural productivity and forest conservation. Advocate for the strengthening of environmental regulations that protect forested areas from illegal logging and land conversion. Policymakers should enforce stricter penalties for illegal deforestation activities while providing incentives for sustainable land use.
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