Natural forests were cleared to make way for timber plantations.

Explanation:
The development of timber plantations was primarily driven by the clearing of natural forests. This process involved the deliberate removal of existing forests to create space for the establishment of plantations dedicated to timber production. Several factors contributed to this phenomenon:

1. Economic Demand: The growing demand for timber, both domestically and internationally, necessitated the expansion of timber production. As timber was a valuable resource for construction, furniture, and other industries, the need to meet this demand led to the establishment of timber plantations.

2. Logging Industry: The logging industry played a significant role in the development of timber plantations. As timber became an economically lucrative resource, logging companies sought to maximize their profits by establishing plantations where trees could be grown and harvested in a controlled manner, ensuring a continuous supply of timber.

3. Deforestation: To make way for timber plantations, natural forests were cleared through deforestation. This involved the systematic removal of trees and vegetation to create space for the planting of timber species. Deforestation had adverse environmental consequences, including habitat destruction, loss of biodiversity, and increased greenhouse gas emissions.

4. Land Conversion: Land that was previously used for other purposes, such as cultivation of food crops, was converted into timber plantations. This conversion often occurred due to economic incentives, as timber production was deemed more profitable than other forms of agriculture. As a result, land that could have been used for food production was instead utilized for timber cultivation.

5. Government Policies: Government policies and incentives also played a role in promoting the establishment of timber plantations. In some cases, governments provided subsidies or tax benefits to encourage the expansion of the timber industry. This support further facilitated the clearing of natural forests for plantation development.

Overall, the factor of clearing natural forests to make way for timber plantations was a key driver in the development of these plantations. This process had significant economic implications but also raised concerns about the environmental impact of deforestation and the loss of natural habitats.

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