1. Rain Forest Destruction

2. A Threatened Environment
Rain forests cover only 7% of the earth’s surface but contain half the world’s plant and animal species.
In the last 30 years, more than 40% of the world’s rain forests have been destroyed.
About 27 million acres (an area the size of New England) disappear each year.

3. Causes of Destruction
Logging
Cattle ranching
Mining
Road construction

4. Impacts of Destruction
People depend on rain forests for
Food
Medicines
Clearing of forest areas leads to erosion and unproductive soils.
Burning of forest areas releases enormous quantities of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

5. Loss of Biodiversity A small area of rain forest can contain
1500 species of flowering plants
750 species of trees
400 species of birds
160 species of reptiles and amphibians
150 species of butterflies
125 species of mammals

6. What Can You Do to Help?
Boycott companies that use products from rain forest areas.
Educate others about rain forests.
Invest in rain forest communities.
Don’t forget your own back yard.
Join a forest conservation group in your area.
Start a conservation group if none exists.