Deforestation is the process of clearing large areas of forests or stands of trees for purposes other than forest use. This can include cutting down trees for timber, paper products, and agricultural land, as well as for infrastructure development such as roads and urban expansion. Deforestation has a significant impact on the environment, including loss of habitat for wildlife, increased greenhouse gas emissions, soil erosion, and disruption of water cycles. It is considered one of the major contributors to climate change and global warming.