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| Recycling
is a very important way you can help preserve the world's forests.
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Get Involved!
What you can do to help
While deforestation is a big problem caused by many people, each person can remain part of the
problem or become part of the solution, by their own actions. You can make a difference! You can
help by the things you do as well and the things you don�t do.
There are many things you can do to help save the forests. First, and most important is to recycle.
Remember, paper comes from trees. Every box, magazine, and piece of paper you recycle is that
much less wood from a tree in a forest in the future. You can recycle in two ways: by sending paper
and other packaging to a recycling factory, and by using these things again in new ways. For
example, instead of throwing out a cardboard box, and then buying a new plastic container, use the
cardboard box instead. You can even decorate it yourself using paint, markers, and decals. Instead
of throwing out paper that is only used on one side, use it as scrap paper and write on the other
side. Empty egg cartons make great containers for small things such as jewelry, nuts and bolts, and
even coin collections. There are many ways you can reuse paper and wood products. Be creative
and see how many ways you can invent!
Just as important as the things you do are the things you don�t do. Air pollution is a major problem,
and much it is avoidable. Cars add to air pollution, so don�t ask to be driven in a car to a place you
can walk or ride your bike. Batteries, paints, and other household items and materials can contain
chemicals dangerous to the environment. Be sure not to throw these away in the regular garbage,
but dispose of them properly. If they end up in the garbage, they will go into a landfill and the
chemicals will leach out and possibly add to water pollution. Avoid using extra energy in the
house. Don�t leave the oven or stove on longe than you need it, and don�t open the oven or
refirgerator door frequently. Don�t leave lights on when you don�t need them. Every time you use
extra energy, it must come from somewhere, which is usually a power plant burning natural
resources.
There are many more ways you can help conserve wood products and energy. It�s up to you!
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| The earth is
our home, an island in space. Let's respect the rain forests, and put an end to
deforestation! (photo: NASA)
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Sustainable Ecosystems
Deforestation has many far-reaching effects. For example, as forest areas decrease, the
amount of oxygen released into the air through photosynthesis also decreases. Renewal of
the oxygen supply is vital to the continuing survival of oxygen-breathing organisms. Also,
as less carbon dioxide is taken up by photosynthesis, the amounts of carbon dioxide released
into the air increases. As a result, more heat from the sun is trapped near the earth's surface
instead of being reflected back into space. Many scientists believe that this greenhouse effect
is causing a steady warming that could lead to threatening climatic conditions. The destruction
of forests also destroys the habitats of many living creatures. Countless species of animals
and plants have been wiped out by deforestation.
Wild species of animals and plants provide many valuable substances, such as wood and other plant products, fibers, meat and other foods, and skins and furs. The financial value of wild species is important to the economies of many nations. Every species of wildlife plays a role in helping maintain the balanced, living systems of the earth. These systems must continue to function if life is to survive. Thus, the loss of any species can threaten the survival of all life, including human beings. 3
