skovrydning

Skovrydning, often translated as deforestation, refers to the removal of forest cover and its conversion to non-forest land uses or to a long-term reduction in the extent of forested land. It can occur as complete clearance or as selective removal that degrades forest quality. The term is used in Danish, Norwegian, and English-language discussions of forest policy and land use.

Deforestation is driven by several interrelated factors. Agricultural expansion, including crop production and pasture for livestock, is a primary cause in many regions. Logging for timber and fuelwood, infrastructure development such as roads and urbanization, and mining can also lead to forest loss. Climate-related factors, including droughts and increased fire risk, may exacerbate vulnerability. Governance, land tenure, and market conditions influence how forests are used and protected, with weaker governance often associated with higher rates of loss.

Deforestation occurs through various processes, from clear-cutting on large tracts to selective logging and shifting cultivation. It is commonly monitored using satellite imagery and national forest inventories, with distinctions drawn between gross forest loss and net forest loss, as well as between primary (undisturbed) forests and secondary (regenerating) forests. Definitions and measurement methods vary by country, which can affect reported rates.

The consequences are wide-ranging. Biodiversity loss and habitat degradation are common, and deforestation accounts for a portion of greenhouse gas emissions through the release of stored carbon. There are hydrological and soil-erosion impacts, which can affect water quality and agriculture. Local and indigenous communities may lose livelihoods and cultural resources tied to forest lands.

Policy responses include protected areas, sustainable forest management, and certification schemes. International initiatives such as REDD+ aim to provide financial incentives to reduce deforestation. Reforestation, afforestation, agroforestry, and community forestry are among the strategies used to restore forest cover and sustain ecosystem services.