Staple crops are a major contributor to global deforestation, says study
Phys.org
February 23, 2026
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Staple crops like rice, maize, and cassava are responsible for a significant portion of global deforestation, with their cumulative impact accounting for approximately 11% of total deforestation between 2001 and 2022. This finding, published in *Nature Food*, highlights that these widely consumed crops play a larger role in deforestation than other major contributors such as cocoa, coffee, and rubber. The study underscores the often-overlooked connection between staple crop production and environmental degradation, emphasizing the need to address this issue in global efforts to combat deforestation.
The analysis revealed that rice alone contributed 43% of the total deforestation linked to these crops, primarily due to its expansion in areas like Southeast Asia and South America. Maize, another major staple, accounted for 27%, with significant contributions coming from regions such as Latin America and Africa. Cassava, a key crop in tropical regions, made up the remaining 30% of deforestation tied to these staples. These figures highlight how the demand for high-yield crops has driven land conversion, particularly in areas where forests are cleared for agricultural expansion.
The study’s authors argue that staple crops should be prioritized in global conservation strategies. They stress the importance of adopting sustainable farming practices and promoting crop diversification to reduce deforestation. Additionally, they call for stronger international policies to address the environmental impact of large-scale agriculture while ensuring food security for growing populations. This research not only sheds light on a critical yet underreported cause of deforestation but also offers actionable insights for policymakers and agricultural stakeholders.
Understanding the role of staple crops in deforestation is crucial for anyone interested in science, as it ties into
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Originally published on Phys.org on 2/23/2026