1. Deforestation: The Great Leap Forward emphasized the expansion of steel production. To fuel the blast furnaces, massive deforestation occurred, as trees were cut down to provide charcoal and timber. This deforestation led to soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and disruption of the water cycle.
2. Soil Erosion: The campaign encouraged mass mobilization of people to convert fields into communes and construct backyard steel furnaces. This widespread and rapid conversion of land for steel production and agriculture resulted in poor land management practices. Soil erosion became rampant due to improper terracing, deforestation, and over-cultivation.
3. Water Pollution: The establishment of numerous small-scale iron and steel mills along rivers and lakes led to the discharge of untreated wastewater, toxic chemicals, and heavy metals into water bodies. This resulted in severe water pollution, contaminating rivers, lakes, and groundwater, and harming aquatic ecosystems.
4. Air Pollution: The backyard steel furnaces used in the Great Leap Forward emitted copious amounts of pollutants, including carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter. The air pollution caused severe respiratory illnesses and smog in many Chinese cities.
5. Desertification: The massive deforestation and unsustainable farming practices led to the loss of vegetation and soil degradation, resulting in the expansion of deserts in northern China.
6. Loss of Biodiversity: The conversion of natural habitats for agriculture and industrial development resulted in the loss of a wide range of plant and animal species. Many endangered species faced population declines and habitat fragmentation.
7. Famine and Starvation: The Great Leap Forward's focus on industrialization and collectivization disrupted traditional farming practices and caused agricultural failures. Widespread famine ensued, resulting in millions of deaths due to starvation.
The environmental disaster caused by the Great Leap Forward had long-term consequences, including the depletion of natural resources, ecosystem degradation, and public health issues. It took years of effort and policy changes to address the environmental damage and promote sustainable development in China.