What’s causing forests to disappear?
Forests are a precious habitat to many species; however, much of this habitat has been lost due to various causes.
Often farmers cut down forests to farm cattle and livestock. Cattle ranching has had a major impact on the Amazon rainforest, particularly as meat demand is increasing. Therefore, even more land is being cleared for grazing and creating more pastureland.
Potential solution: Using cyclical agriculture instead. This rotates crops and livestock grazing to maintain soil fertility and decrease the amount of pastureland needed.
Forests are also cleared for soya and palm oil, which in particular is used in products such as processed food, lipstick and shampoo. While versatile, these are a significant cause of forest loss, particularly in Indonesia. This is because forests are cut down to make way for palm oil plantations.
Potential solution: People could avoid palm oil by using alternative products like food cooked with fresh ingredients. Another possible solution could be producing palm oil more sustainably.
Logging and wood harvesting are major causes of forest loss around the world, as wood is used for many valuable materials.
Potential solution: Sustainable logging practices could be used instead, such as allowing time for the forest to regrow. Vulnerable areas, habitats and ecosystems should be safeguarded too; this can be done by timing harvesting carefully and avoiding fragile soils.
