Where Do We Go from Here?

If you've been reading this blog and you're deeply concerned about the implications of chopping down all these poor trees, you're probably searching for some hope that change is on the way. On the other hand, perhaps you're sold on the process's benefits and think there is little room for improvement in the system; if so, you should read some earlier posts! Either way, no matter which side of the environmental spectrum you stand on, it is important to be aware of the progress being made and how you can help out. In this blog's final post, we will sift through some of the various ways the world is responding to this global issue and standing up for our giant green friends.

The most obvious solution to stopping the negative effects deforestation is having on our planet is to bring a halt to all cutting around the world. However, it doesn't take a genius to realize that such a solution is clearly not feasible, as the world runs on this practice for economic stability, fuel production, and cleared land. For many developing nations, deforestation and its financial benefits are absolutely essential for economic growth, providing a tremendous source of revenue that connects them to the global market.

             
                      This image is compliments of Living on Earth.

So while ridiculous measures such as banning deforestation altogether are not realistically possible, what can be done to prevent these nations from chopping down all the world's rainforests within the next century? One approach being taken by many nations is participation in the United Nations' Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD) program, which offers financial incentives to nations that employ sustainable forest management practices. Since being established in 2008, this program has been embraced by over 40 developing countries around the world, helping reduce the impacts of deforestation. Brazil in particular has served as a wonderful model for how this policy has proven effective, as the nation has reduced its forest-clearing practices by 40% since adopting this UN initiative.

One solution that many world leaders advocate for is reforestation, the opposite process of planting new trees in response to the ones being chopped down. Obviously this system is already in place to some extent, as new trees are planted everyday, but conducting this process on a larger scale would certainly produce many benefits to counteract the negative impacts on the environment.

             
                     This picture is courtesy of Global Reforestation Foundation.

However, reforestation on its own will never solve the problems posed by its counterpart practice. Although planting more trees would reduce carbon dioxide levels from the atmosphere, the world would never be able to make up for all the greenhouse gases we've released and continue to release with the current emission rates. Additionally, reforestation would likely accomplish little in preserving biodiversity across the world's ecosystems. For many species, extinction is very near, and future clearings will continue to eliminate much of the world's biodiversity without greater restrictions on cutting.

The best way to curb the effects of deforestation is likely a combination of reforestation and stricter management policies, particularly regarding clear-cutting, a process that eliminates most or all of the trees from a region. Many organizations are trying to push sustainability laws that would prohibit the practice of clear-cutting and force industries to plant trees in place of demolished land spaces. This would keep forests intact and give them an opportunity to recover and grow again without being completely wiped out. Ideally, by planting an increased number of trees and limiting cutting, nations would reach a net loss/gain of zero trees.

As for you my friend, besides supporting legislators that will promote these policies, you can still play a role in helping reduce the effects of deforestation. You're probably sick of hearing it by now, but it's certainly worth mentioning to reduce, reuse, and recycle! We should all focus more on the reducing and reusing parts especially; we tend to forget about the important role those processes play. If we don't need to keep buying as many wood products, we won't have to chop down as many trees! Additionally, if you feel like playing a more active role in saving the world, do a little bit of research and find suppliers that are committed to net-zero deforestation, or simply look for certified wood products.

             
                                 This image is provided by Haiku Deck.

In light of this blog's attitude towards the subject, it is important to note that deforestation is not our enemy; it is still a valuable and quite necessary process that fuels the earth. Our enemy is the monster we have allowed the practice to become. And while it may seem like there's not much we can do to prevent the environmental threats facing our planet, every little bit counts! Spread awareness about deforestation and do your part to create a greener environment; let's help turn this thing around!