Forest ecosystems under threat:
how can each of us help?

Forests are the lungs of our planet, purifying the air, stabilising the climate and providing a home for millions of animals and plants. However, massive deforestation is putting these unique systems under threat. The loss of forests affects not only nature but also people's lives. Planetmyhome is constantly reminding us of the importance of preserving forests and finding solutions. So, let's talk about how to stop the process and help forests recover.
Forest ecosystems under threat: how can each of us help?
Let's look at what is happening to nature in these times.
1) Destruction of landscapes and forests
Missiles, drones, artillery - all of this not only destroys cities and kills, but also literally changes the face of the earth. Military equipment causes soil erosion, trenches change the natural landscape. All the valuable resources for buildings that were taken from the territories were destroyed, and to restore them, new ones will need to be mined, which are already in short supply.
Forests, in turn, are burned out, and fertile fields turn into scorched wastelands.
2) Poisoning of land and water
When shells explode, many toxic substances are released into the air, ground and water: lead, mercury, radioactive substances. The destruction of factories, warehouses and oil refineries also causes large-scale pollution. And with the destruction of ships and aircraft, fuel oil and diesel will leak, creating an oil slick on the water surface. This threatens to kill fish and other marine species.
3) Destruction of biodiversity
Animals are dying due to shelling, mines, fires and the loss of their habitats. Military noise, explosions and radiation affect the migration of birds, forcing them to leave their homes.
Forest ecosystems under threat: how can each of us help?
What are the consequences of deforestation?
1) Climate change
We all know that trees and plants absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen. But when forests are cut down, this balance is upset and the level of gas in the atmosphere rises. This exacerbates global warming because forests act as a filter.
2) Loss of biodiversity
Forests are the habitat of many animals, birds and insects. Massive deforestation contributes to the extinction of many species or to changes in migration routes. Some of them do not survive under such conditions.
3) Droughts and floods
Trees retain moisture in the soil, and their absence leads to erosion, desertification or catastrophic flooding.
Looking at all these causes and effects, how can we help the forest?
1) Restoration of forests
There are many projects that deal with reforestation. An example is the Large-scale Afforestation of Ukraine, which is still ongoing. Planetmyhome helps to plant trees, cooperates with volunteers, and calls for responsible wood consumption. Therefore, you can also join such organisations.
2) Environmental responsibility
· Use fewer paper products and pay more attention to electronic versions of documents.
· Buy wood with FSC certificates. This is a guarantee that its harvesting did not harm the environment.
· Avoid products that contribute to deforestation. Palm oil is an example, as it is often produced by destroying tropical forests.
3) Volunteering and eco-education
Join volunteer programmes and take care of trees. You can also use the same programme to educate others, promote the importance of forests and support environmental initiatives.

In conclusion, a forest is not just trees, but a complex eco-system without which life on Earth is impossible. Deforestation has catastrophic consequences, but each of us can contribute to conservation. Small actions can make a big difference to the future.

Author of the article - Sysoeva Emilia
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