LAND USE CHANGES AND ITS IMPACT ON ECOSYSTEM BALANCE IN TROPICAL REGIONS

Abstract

Land-use change in tropical regions is a phenomenon that is increasing in tandem with population growth and the expansion of economic activities. This study aims to analyze the impacts of land-use change on ecosystem balance in tropical regions, focusing on biodiversity, the hydrological cycle, and microclimate stability. The method employed is a qualitative approach based on a literature review, analyzing various relevant recent scientific publications. The findings indicate that the conversion of forests into agricultural land, plantations, and residential areas leads to a significant decline in biodiversity and disrupts key ecological functions, including carbon sequestration and water regulation. Furthermore, changes in land cover also contribute to increased local temperatures and altered rainfall patterns. The cumulative impacts of these changes have the potential to disrupt the overall ecosystem balance and increase vulnerability to environmental disasters. Therefore, sustainable and conservation-based land management strategies are needed to maintain the stability of tropical ecosystems.