Deforestation: Why Care and What Can We Do?
In light of some really big problems going on in the world now, we are not hearing a lot about deforestation, why we should care, or what we can do. But we can not forget this very big problem is going on as we speak, and that we are losing trees at an astonishing rate.
Clearcutting of Forests
“To understand why deforestation is such a pressing and urgent issue, forests must first be given credit for what they bring to global ecosystems and the quality of life that all species maintain. Tropical Rain forests presently give a place to call home for 50% – 90% of all organisms, 90% of our relatives, the primates, and 50 million creatures that can live no place but the rich rain forests. Not only are other species at risk, but the human race also benefits from what the trees give.”
“Additionally, trees improve the quality of the air by trapping carbon and other particles produced by pollution. Trees determine rainfall and replenish the atmosphere. As more water gets put back in the atmosphere, clouds form and provide another way to block out the sun’s heat. Trees are what cool and regulates the earth’s climate in conjunction with other such valuable services as preventing erosion, landslides, and making the most infertile soil rich with life.” ~ The Choice: Doomsday or Arbor Day
According to the World Resources Institute, more than 80 percent of the Earth’s natural forests already have been destroyed. Up to 90 percent of West Africa’s coastal rain forests have disappeared since 1900. Trees are natural consumers of carbon dioxide—one of the greenhouse gases whose buildup in the atmosphere contributes to global warming. Destruction of trees not only removes these “carbon sinks,” but tree burning and decomposition pump into the atmosphere even more carbon dioxide, along with methane, another major greenhouse gas.~ National Geographic, Deforestation
During the lifespans of trees, they grace us with their beauty, they shade us on hot days, and they provide us with necessary oxygen, they consume carbon dioxide, and they throw much needed water into our atmosphere. As we walk among these towering giants, they stand sentinel as we unwind and let go of city stress and daily angst. ~Nothing More Noble Than Trees
So, what can we do to help stop deforestation? One thing is to understand that there are alternatives to using tree products. Industrial hemp, for instance, can replace all tree products, including paper, rope, cardboard, and plywood. Unfortunately, while industrial hemp products can be sold in the US, it’s not legal for farmers to grow it as a crop. That has to change, and we can educate the public and our government about that.
Additionally, there are a number of petitions you can sign to help prevent deforestation of specific areas, and forms online you can use to email government officials.
