Try to imagine a world without forests. Our world would be very gray and muddy. Our homes would be exposed to flooding and storm surges without forested watersheds and mangroves.
Without forests to absorb carbon, global warming would intensify. We would have to work hard to find water sources to drink, bathe, and grow our agriculture. Like in many places where resources are scarce, people would begin to be restless, and conflicts would increase.
What was once free, would come at increasing prices. Only those with more money would be able to afford the simplest that nature could offer.
Before all of this happens, we would already lose our Philippine Eagle; the National Bird of the Philippines. They would only be found in far away zoos locked in cages, their fascinating behaviors observed while free would be gone forever. Other species would disappear; wild orchids, pitcher plants, walking sticks, and potential medicines for incurable diseases would also be lost.
Our Indigenous Peoples, the bearers of ancient culture, language, and knowledge of our forests, would be gone forever. Their descendants further exposed to abuse, exploitation, and misunderstanding in urban areas.
A world without forests is not a livable world.
It is not too late… you can help!
We have 24% forest cover left in the country since the 1900’s. So we must do what we can to protect the forest that is left, and plant more trees. Here are some ways you can help bring back our forests!
- Join a tree planting. By planting trees we help restore forest that was lost and help bring back ecosystem services and local biodiversity.
- Adopt-A-Seedling. If you cannot get your hands dirty on-site, you can adopt trees from home!
- Donate. Support on-going conservation efforts from “ridge to reef”.
- Become a member. Join a group of conservationists and contribute to our forests and seas as a member.
Another way you can help is to learn! Reading fun facts and trivia, articles, and research studies will help you become more informed. One way you can learn about our forests is to learn about the native tree species that live there.
Learn more about our wonderful Forest Friends here.
