Confronting Deforestation: A World Hanging in the Balance

Ecuador Palm Oil Clear Cut of the Secoya Forest – photo by James Ficklin

Staff Writer
Waking Times

Deforestation is one of the greatest threats to our planet today. As certain industries and communities have grown, they have cut down acres upon acres of forests that provide life-giving oxygen, absorb and hold carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere, and house countless animal and plant species.

Deforestation of the Amazon Rainforest over the last few decades has so far resulted in at least 1/5th of the forest being cleared, mainly due to the growing timber, soy and cattle industries. The Amazon, located throughout South America, is the largest continuous forest on the planet, responsible for providing around 20% of the Earth’s oxygen.


  • The video below, Hanging in the Balance: The Future of a Forest, discusses how social entrepreneurs, governments and environmental agencies have been pursuing efforts to reduce deforestation through methods such as: enabling indigenous tribes to protect their lands; using financial programs that direct funds from countries that emit a lot of carbon to fund projects that conserve carbon; and implementing legislation that protects forests and supports sustainable industry efforts.

    Today, deforestation is slightly declining in Brazil, which accounts for the largest share of the Amazon Rainforest, because of the combined efforts of multiple environmental and government entities, as well as social entrepreneurs and private companies. Simply put, people need to be compensated for working with the forest, while companies must be held responsible for their impact on the environment if they are to be allowed to compete in their respective markets.

    It is believed that a model is in place to help save the Amazon and the planet from deforestation and degradation.  If this model can be effectively implemented throughout South America and other continents, then there may be good reason to be optimistic about the plight of this world treasure. Please share this inspiring video with friends and family.

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