Deforestation
Learn why forests are disappearing and how kids can help protect trees and the animals that need them
An overhead view showing a forest on one side of the road and land where trees have been cut down on the other side.
Deforestation means cutting down forests and not planting new trees to replace them. While people sometimes need to cut trees for farms, homes, and roads, when too many forests disappear too quickly, it causes big problems for animals, people, and our whole planet.
Why Forests Are Important
Forests are like nature's superheroes with amazing powers! They clean the air by breathing in carbon dioxide and breathing out fresh oxygen for us. They filter water as it flows through their roots, making streams and rivers cleaner. Forests also provide homes for millions of animals and plants.
An overhead view showing a forest on one side of the road and land where trees have been cut down on the other side.
Trees also help control weather by providing shade and releasing water vapor that creates clouds and rain. When forests disappear, the land can become too hot and dry, making it hard for new plants to grow back.
How This Affects Animals
When forests disappear, animals lose their homes and have nowhere to go. Orangutans in Asia and jaguars in South America are running out of forest to live in. Birds can't find trees to build nests, and forest elephants can't find enough food to eat.
Many animals try to move to new forests, but if the forests are too far apart, they can't make the journey safely. Some animals get trapped in small patches of forest that aren't big enough for them to find mates and raise healthy families.
Children and families planting new trees as part of reforestation efforts
The good news is that people around the world are working hard to replant forests and protect the ones we still have. When we all work together to use less paper, recycle more, and plant new trees, we can help forests and their amazing animals thrive for many years to come!
