DEFORESTATION
Deforestation is the process of clearing or removing large expanses of forests or trees, typically for the purpose of converting the land for agriculture, urban development, logging, or other human activities. It involves the deliberate or accidental removal of forests and the transformation of these forested areas into non-forest land uses.
CAUSES
Deforestation can result from various human activities, including agricultural expansion, logging, mining, infrastructure development (such as roads and highways), and urbanisation. Often, these activities are driven by the demand for land and resources.
For example leather consumption. The Rainforest Foundation Norway suggest that 50% of all European leather used in the automotive industry in imported from Brazil. Cattle ranching is responsible for around 80% of all deforestation activities, thus responsibly sourcing, (or better still switching this material entirely) is imperative.
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Its important to note that deforestation is not just an Amazon issue, it is a global issue.
Forests are home to a vast array of plant and animal species. Their destruction leads to habitat loss and threatens many species with extinction.
Trees absorb and store carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. When forests are cleared, this stored carbon is released into the atmosphere, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and global warming.
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Forests play a crucial role in regulating local and global water cycles. Their removal can disrupt rainfall patterns, leading to droughts and other water-related issues.
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​Deforestation can also have significant social consequences, especially for indigenous communities and local populations who rely on forests for their livelihoods. Land grabs and displacement are common issues associated with deforestation.
Why Are Our Forests So Important?
Combating Deforestation
Governments have a major responsibility in protecting rainforest, A recent public vote in Ecuador (August 2023) shows the taste for protecting forests and biodiversity is greater than that of oil and money. Check out the BBC article here. Following this inspirational vote. So what can backpackers do to help?
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Most importantly, educate yourself about the native tree species in the region you're visiting. We are looking to help with this through our posts and recommendations. Check out our Colombia Blueprint series on Kasaguadua to see a great example of how eco-tourism, can become an educational experience that can enrich your travels.
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Some hostels or eco-lodges offer work exchange programs where you can stay for free to help with a project such as replanting or construction. A good example of this Rancho Mastatal in Costa Rica.
For volunteer work, check out Ripple Africa as a great example of where you can spend some time replanting and helping.
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Lets look at some initiatives starting with ecoducts (right). These are largely retrofit solution but nonetheless cool pieces of infrastructure that provide safe passage to animals quite literally to cross the road! The image on the right is showing the Skanska scheme in the Czech Republic, the bridge is planted and forested to create a seamless link.
What Initiatives Are There?
The FSC mark. Its always good to be mindful and curious about where the products that contain wood come from. For example, deforestation in Indonesia has doubled over the last decade largely due to pulp, paper and palm oil production! This is where the FSC mark can help guide our decision, from loo roll to notebooks.
Diet
Being mindful of ones diet can also have a huge impact on the environment. When backpacking, it is not always easy to remove meat and or fish from a diet, especially if you are in the middle of an Amazon being hosted by a family! But every little helps and if there is a vegetarian or vegan option, why not give it a shot. One difficult area is during long bus journeys across heavy meat eating countries, because most of your service stop options are going to be meat based. A good tip is to make sure you have your snacks sorted before hitting the road. Imagine eating like an endurance athlete during a race, fruits, nuts and biscuits to keep you going.