Here today, gone tomorrow? Rainforests are rapidly disappearing, but you can help stop the destruction.
Tropical rainforests exist around the world, including in South America, Australia, Africa and Southeast Asia. These precious biomes are home to thousands of species of plant, insect and animal life. However, these treasured landscapes are vanishing rapidly, with some experts estimating that they could disappear entirely before the end of this century. Any person, anywhere can play a part in preserving these natural wonders, so that we can learn and benefit from them in the centuries to come.
Recycle, Reduce, Reuse
When a tree is cut down in the rainforest, an entire ecosystem of interconnected life-forms comes tumbling down with it. According to Save the Rainforest, the destruction of these forests will eventually lead to the loss of 50% of the world's plant and animal species. Ease the pressure of rainforest logging by recycling and reusing timber products like paper bags, notebooks, and cardboard boxes. To ensure that harmful plastics and non-biodegradable materials don't find their way into a landfill, separate your recyclables from your garbage. Start a compost pile, and donate unwanted but usable goods to non-profit organizations like the Salvation Army.
Conserve Water
Water is an essential resource for both human beings and the denizens of the rainforest. Don't waste this valuable resource by leaving water running for extended periods of time. Water your lawn in the early evening, when the sun won't cause moisture to evaporate. Keep a timer or clock radio near the shower, and try to limit bathing to five to ten minutes.
Save Energy
Oil and gas emissions produce greenhouse gasses, which lead to drastic climate changes. These shifts in the climate cause the entire ecosystem of the rainforest to alter dramatically, threatening the survival of this haven of biodiversity. Saving energy can go a long way toward halting the production of greenhouse gasses. Carpool to work or school at least once a week, or ride your bike. Turn down the heat in winter and wear a sweater indoors. Turn off electric appliances for things that can be done manually, like mixing cookie dough or unscrewing a bolt.
Be Aware
Think critically about the resources you consume in your day-to-day life. The wooden front door on your house, the chopsticks in your take-out dinner, the crate of oranges you bought at the store -- all of these wooden items may have been made with timber harvested from the rainforest. The World Resources Institute states that the biggest cause of rainforest deforestation is commercial logging. Ask questions and find out where the products you consume were sourced. If you find they came from rainforest timber, switch products or reuse the ones you have to prevent more timber from being felled.
Donate Your Spare Resources
Everyone has something a little extra to give, whether it's a handful of spare change, a few minutes on the phone, or a click of the mouse. Many reputable organizations offer programs where you can adopt an acre of threatened rainforest space for a monetary donation.
Act Locally
Just because you are thousands of miles away from any rainforest does not mean your actions can't have an important effect on their future. Try to buy local produce, groceries and gifts to reduce the amount of carbon emissions emitted by transporting goods from distant locations. Attend city council meetings and voice your concerns; urge your council members to commit to making government activities more environmentally friendly. Any small change is a big step toward sustaining the rainforests for future generations.
Spread the Word
One voice is powerful, many voices united are undeniable. Collaborate within your community to make saving the rainforest a priority. Organize a day of letter writing and phone banking to your elected government officials to bring rainforest preservation to their attention. Host a bake sale or a coin drive and use the proceeds to buy and protect several acres of endangered rainforest. Find like-minded individuals and mobilize to protect the rainforest.
Related Posts:
Save Your Skin And Hide Your Age
Save Your Skin and Hide Your AgeThe secret of staying young is to live honestly, eat slowly and lie about your age, legendary comedian Lucille Ball once said.It certainly is becoming easier to lie...
Things To Do In Amsterdam At Christmas
Amsterdam, the largest city in the Netherlands, is a beautiful city of canals, often referred to as the Venice of the north. Filled with buildings dating from the 17th century and priceless works...
Why Is There Gas In The Oil Of My Kawasiki Mule 610
The Kawasaki Mule performs on paved paths and in off road conditions.Several factors can cause your fuel and oil to mix. These include a misfiring cylinder or a bad spark plug. Engine wear on olde...
