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The Process of how land becomes desert due to drought, deforestation and improper agriculture

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The Process of how land becomes desert due to drought, deforestation and improper agriculture

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Removal of natural vegetation (deforestation).

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Removal of natural vegetation (deforestation).

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Overgrazing caused by mass quantities of livestock

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Overgrazing caused by mass quantities of livestock

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Support Companies Who Take a Stand Against Deforestation 

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Support Companies Who Take a Stand Against Deforestation 

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Populations Depend on the forest for survival

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Populations Depend on the forest for survival

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The Forests are being modified by changes controlled by humans

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The Forests are being modified by changes controlled by humans

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People are having to adapt to these changes by moving

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People are having to adapt to these changes by moving

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This Digest is a faithful summary of the leading scientific consensus report produced in 2005 by the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MA): ' Desertification Synthesis Report'

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We've heard about how we're losing vast tracts of forests each year - for many reasons. We've also learned about the negative effects. Trees are a very important part of our biodiversity. It is vital to life on Earth. So how come we're killing them? How can we stop deforestation?

Tropical rainforests have more than 210 gigatons of carbon stored within its trees. When we cut them now, not only are we reducing our supplier of oxygen, we are releasing all that carbon in our atmosphere.

To date, more than 4.6 million hectares of forests have been cut down or burned - to supply our ever increasing demand for wood and land.

What is the Solution to Deforestation?

Deforestation is one of the most pressing environmental issues we face today, with vast tracts of forests disappearing at an alarming rate. It not only leads to the loss of habitat for countless species but also accelerates climate change due to the significant amounts of carbon dioxide stored in these ecosystems.

However, it's not an unsolvable problem. Each one of us can contribute to the solution. Below we have collected 15 practical ways that you can help stop deforestation and promote a more sustainable relationship with our planet's precious forests.

15 Practical Ways to Stop Deforestation

You can contribute to the efforts against deforestation by doing these easy steps:

1. Plant More Trees
Engage in tree-planting initiatives in your community or through global organizations.

2. Go Paperless
Reduce paper consumption by going digital at home and in the office. When you do need to print, use both sides of the paper.

3. Support Responsible Companies
Choose to support companies that are committed to reducing deforestation and use sustainable practices.

4. Buy Certified Wood Products
Opt for wood or paper products that are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or similar organizations.

5. Buy and Use Responsibly
Consider your purchases carefully. Buy only what you need, and prioritize items with less packaging or reusable containers.

6. Avoid Palm Oil
Palm oil production contributes significantly to deforestation. Check labels and avoid products containing palm oil where possible.

7. Recycle and Buy Recycled Products
Support the recycling economy by buying recycled products and recycling them again after use.

8. Educate Others
Raise awareness about deforestation in your social circle and community. The more people know, the more they can help.

9. Support Sustainable Agriculture
Buy from local farmers who practice sustainable agriculture, helping to reduce the demand for deforested land.

10. Advocate for Forest Protection Policies
Support policies and politicians that prioritize forest conservation and responsible land use.

11. Support Indigenous Rights
Support Indigenous communities who often are excellent stewards of the forests they inhabit.

12. Offset Your Carbon Footprint
Consider supporting carbon offset programs that protect existing forests or plant new trees.

13. Reduce Meat Consumption
Livestock farming is a major cause of deforestation. Consider reducing your meat intake or choose products from sustainable farms.

14. Use Renewable Energy
Using renewable energy reduces the need for deforestation caused by mining and drilling.

15. Volunteer or Donate
Consider donating your time or money to organizations that work to prevent deforestation.

Remember, every action counts. By making informed choices, we can contribute to preserving our forests and securing the future of our planet. And remember... every product that is made out of trees is Recyclable. So practice recycling diligently.

Your power as a consumer is vital to stopping deforestation. Just like any business, if there's no demand the supply will be lessened. Fortunately, there are environmentally and forest friendly businesses that are helping to stop deforestation. They need your support. Let's encourage their efforts by patronizing their products.

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Why is Africa building a Great Green Wall? BBC News