deforestation
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deforestation
The large-scale cutting down and removal of trees and forests, usually in order to use the land for agriculture, settlements, or timber production; also called deforestation.
Die Abholzung des Amazonas-Regenwaldes hat verheerende Folgen für das globale Klima.
The deforestation of the Amazon rainforest has devastating consequences for the global climate.
The noun 'die Abholzung' (deforestation) comes from the separable verb 'abholzen' (to clear-cut). This verb is made up of 'ab-' (away) and 'Holz' (wood). 'Abholzung' therefore describes the process in which the wood (the trees) is removed.
Die Regierung hat Maßnahmen ergriffen, um die Abholzung zu verlangsamen.
The government has taken measures to slow deforestation.
'Abholzung' (deforestation) is often used in the context of the environment and climate. Common combinations are 'die Abholzung des Regenwaldes' (the deforestation of the rainforest), 'illegale Abholzung' (illegal deforestation), or 'die Abholzung stoppen/bekämpfen' (to stop/combat deforestation).
Umweltschützer kämpfen gegen die illegale Abholzung der Wälder.
Environmentalists are fighting against the illegal deforestation of forests.
This word is used almost exclusively in the context of the environment, climate, and geography. It has a strongly negative connotation and describes a human-made problem.
In der Schule sprachen wir über die Folgen der globalen Abholzung.
At school, we talked about the consequences of global deforestation.
clearing / deforestation
Both words can describe the large-scale removal of a forest. „Abholzung“ emphasizes cutting down and removing the trees. „Rodung“ places more emphasis on making the area completely usable for agriculture, buildings, or another purpose.
Die Abholzung des Waldes liefert große Mengen Holz.
The deforestation of the forest provides large quantities of wood.
Die Rodung des Waldes schafft Platz für neue Felder.
Clearing the forest makes room for new fields.
