How Deforestation and Global Warming Combine to Threaten the Amazon Rainforest

May 6, 2026, 16:00
GlobalScience

Introduction

Recent computer models show that the Amazon rainforest is at a higher risk of collapsing into a degraded state. This is caused by the combined effects of rising global temperatures and changes in how the land is used.

Main Body

The stability of the Amazon depends on a complex system where the forest releases moisture into the air, which then creates up to 50% of the region's rain. However, human activities are damaging this natural cycle. Data shows that at least 15% of the forest has already been cleared, mainly for cattle ranching, which reduces the forest's ability to move moisture across the region. Research models indicate that the level of risk depends on future land use. If no more trees are cut down, the forest would only become unstable if global temperatures rose by 3.7°C to 4.0°C. However, if deforestation increases to between 22% and 28%, this critical limit drops significantly to only 1.5°C to 1.9°C. In this scenario, between 62% and 77% of the rainforest could be permanently damaged. Experts have different views on how quickly this will happen. The Potsdam Institute emphasizes that local damage could trigger a chain reaction of forest death across thousands of kilometers. On the other hand, some experts argue that the worst outcomes can be avoided if the Brazilian government stops deforestation by 2030. Nevertheless, the increase in wildfires suggests that the forest is less resilient than previously thought.

Conclusion

The Amazon rainforest is still at risk of a permanent collapse. However, this can be prevented if global warming is limited and deforestation is stopped and reversed.

Learning

🧩 The 'B2 Logic' Shift: Moving Beyond Simple Sentences

As an A2 learner, you likely use words like but, and, and so. To reach B2, you need Connectors of Contrast and Concession. These words don't just link ideas; they show the relationship between them.

🔍 Analysis of the Text

Look at how the author moves from one idea to a conflicting one. Instead of saying "But," they use:

  1. However →\rightarrow "However, human activities are damaging this natural cycle."
  2. On the other hand →\rightarrow "On the other hand, some experts argue..."
  3. Nevertheless →\rightarrow "Nevertheless, the increase in wildfires suggests..."

💡 Why this matters for your fluency

If you say: "The forest is big, but it is dying," you sound like a beginner. If you say: "The forest is vast; nevertheless, it is increasingly fragile," you sound like a B2 speaker.

The Hierarchy of Contrast:

  • However: The standard 'B2' version of but. Use it at the start of a new sentence to pivot the topic.
  • On the other hand: Use this specifically when comparing two different opinions or perspectives (like the experts in the text).
  • Nevertheless: Use this when the second fact is surprising or happens despite the first fact. It adds a layer of 'sophistication' to your argument.

🛠️ Practical Application

Try replacing your basic connectors with these patterns:

  • extA2:It is raining, but I will go out.→B2: It is raining; **nevertheless**, I will go out. ext{A2: } \text{It is raining, but I will go out.} \rightarrow \text{B2: } \text{It is raining; **nevertheless**, I will go out.}
  • extA2:I like tea, but she likes coffee.→B2: I prefer tea. **On the other hand**, she prefers coffee. ext{A2: } \text{I like tea, but she likes coffee.} \rightarrow \text{B2: } \text{I prefer tea. **On the other hand**, she prefers coffee.}

Quick Tip: Notice that However and Nevertheless are usually followed by a comma (,) when they start a sentence. This is a key punctuation marker for upper-intermediate writing.

Vocabulary Learning

deforestation (n.)
The removal of forests, especially by cutting down trees.
Example:Deforestation in the Amazon threatens biodiversity and climate regulation.
global warming (n.)
The gradual increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to greenhouse gases.
Example:Scientists warn that global warming could cause more extreme weather.
degraded (adj.)
Reduced in quality or value; damaged.
Example:The forest has become degraded after years of logging.
collapse (v.)
To fall down or give way suddenly.
Example:The rainforest could collapse if temperatures rise too high.
permanent (adj.)
Lasting forever; not temporary.
Example:The damage from wildfires may be permanent for the ecosystem.
chain reaction (n.)
A series of events where one event causes the next.
Example:A small fire can trigger a chain reaction of forest destruction.
resilient (adj.)
Able to recover quickly from difficulties.
Example:The forest was thought to be resilient to drought, but recent studies disagree.
critical (adj.)
Extremely important or urgent.
Example:The critical limit for temperature increase is only 1.5°C.
risk (n.)
The possibility of danger or loss.
Example:There is a high risk of species extinction due to deforestation.
model (n.)
A simplified representation of a system.
Example:Computer models predict the forest's future under different scenarios.
research (n.)
Systematic investigation to discover facts.
Example:Research shows that land use changes affect moisture cycles.
land use (n.)
The way land is utilized.
Example:Changes in land use can reduce the forest's ability to retain water.