Deforestation is the process of clearing forests, usually to make way for agriculture, urban development, or timber extraction. It involves cutting down trees, which not only removes the habitat for many species but also disrupts the balance of ecosystems. Forests are home to a wide variety of plants and animals, and when their habitats are destroyed, it can lead to the loss of biodiversity.

Habitat destruction, on the other hand, refers to the overall degradation or elimination of natural habitats, including forests, wetlands, grasslands, and coral reefs. It can occur due to deforestation, but also through activities like pollution, climate change, and the conversion of land for industrial or residential purposes.

Both deforestation and habitat destruction have significant environmental consequences. They contribute to the loss of biodiversity, as many species rely on specific habitats for survival. The destruction of habitats can also disrupt the ecological balance, leading to the decline or extinction of certain species. Additionally, forests play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide, so their removal can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and global warming.