m19.    What can be done to reduce the destruction of tropical forests?

Reduction of destruction is based on changing attitudes towards the benefits of rainforests. As worldwide requirements shift from timber to sustainable products, and as indigenous populations become able to take advantage of these economic benefits, the tropical forests will cease to be cut down. Inclusion of indigenous tribal people, women, and private local conservation organizations in the planning, creation and maintenance of tropical forest preserves can help preserve the forests. Education of the populace, including methods of birth control, can slow population growth and incursion into the forests. Pollution from burning crop residue and dung for fuel also damages tropical forests. Planting more fast-growing fuel wood trees can reduce this. Gourds and squashes regenerate themselves each year without relying on root regeneration, help prevent erosion, live in poor soil, and produce an edible seed; their dried roots are less polluting than crop residue. Another method for dealing with air pollution is to provide the population with more fuel efficient, less polluting stoves that can burn local materials.  

e01.    What is biodiversity?

e03.    How do pathogens and insects affect trees?

e10.    Why do organisms become extinct?

e12.    Where are tropical forests?

g05.    How are forests of geological importance?