Why are forests so important for the water cycle?

Why are forests so important for the water cycle?

The importance of the forests for the water cycle

Forests are much more than mere accumulation of trees and shrubs. They play a critical role in the global water cycle and contribute to environmental and climate stability in a variety of ways. In this article we take a deeper look at the key role, the forests play in the water cycle, and the effects that have its destruction on this fundamental ecological process.

Basic to the water cycle

Before we investigate in more detail how forests affect the water cycle, we should first clarify the water cycle ourselves. The water cycle, also known as the hydrological cycle, is a continuous process in which water evaporates from the earth's surface, condenses in the atmosphere, falls back to earth as a precipitation and then evaporates again, which starts the cycle again. This cycle ensures that our planet has a constant supply system with fresh water that is essential for all living things.

The role of forests in the water cycle

Now that we have understood the water cycle, we can better see how forests intervene in this process. Forests play a key role in every stage of the water cycle and influence it in different ways.

Transiration

Transiration is the process in which water is released from the leaves of a tree to the atmosphere. This is mainly done by small openings in the leaves, known as stomata. This process is of crucial importance for both the tree and the water cycle.

trees transpire large amounts of water. It is estimated that a single large deciduous tree can transport up to 379,000 liters of water in one year. This water is used to cool the tree and for nutrient distribution before it is released into the atmosphere as water.

Intereption

Forests also influence the water cycle through interception. This is the process in which trees and shrubs capture part of the falling precipitation (rain, snow, etc.) on their leaves, branches and tribes before it reaches the floor. Part of this water evaporates directly into the atmosphere and is not included in the ground.

Floor storage and filtration

Forests and especially their root systems are essential for the storage and filtration of water in the ground. Root systems help to hold the soil together, prevent erosion and create spaces in which water can be stored. In addition, the organic substance, which is produced by trees and other plants in the forest, contributes to keeping the floor moist and holding back the water.

The effects of deforestation on the water cycle

The global deforestation has dramatic effects on the water cycle. Without forests, there is less transpiration, which means that less water returns to the atmosphere. This in turn can affect the amount and quality of the precipitation. In addition, deforestation can lead to increased soil erosion, which in turn can affect the water flow and the quality of the water in the adjacent waters.

FAZIT

Forests play a critical role in the global water cycle. They contribute to the transport, interception and storage of water and help to maintain the quality and availability of water on earth. The destruction of forests has in -depth effects on this circulation and can seriously affect the amount and quality of the available water. It is therefore of the utmost importance to protect and maintain forests to ensure the health and stability of our water cycle.