Which activity contributes to soil erosion?

Deforestation is a significant contributor to soil erosion for several reasons. When trees are removed from an area, the protective canopy that shields the soil from rainfall is lost. This exposure can lead to increased surface runoff during rainstorms, which washes away the topsoil. The roots of trees also play a crucial role in holding the soil in place; without them, the soil structure becomes destabilized and more prone to erosion. Additionally, the loss of vegetation can reduce the soil's ability to absorb water, leading to further soil displacement. In contrast, activities like planting trees, building dams, and rainwater harvesting are generally aimed at enhancing soil conservation and managing water effectively, which helps to reduce erosion.