What Is Tropical Rainforest Conservation?

Tropical rainforests cover approximately 6 percent of the land on earth, an area equal to about 2.5 million square miles (6.47 million square kilometers). In contrast, the area that once was covered by tropical rainforests is 14 percent. The number is declining because of tree harvesting and other manmade intrusions, and scientists working for tropical rainforest conservation worry that many of the unique species of flora and fauna will disappear with the disappearing ecosystem. These conservationists work to stem the destructive trend.

The remaining tropical rainforests have already been impacted, with the result being the loss of some species because their habitats cannot support them. Scientists calculate that the earth loses almost 140 species of animals, plants and insects daily. As important as ecology and wildlife habitats are in tropical rainforest conservation, there are also repercussions for humans. Some scientists fear that potential cures for diseases are disappearing with the dwindling species. Plant ingredients make up more than 120 drugs on the market in the world. It is estimated that about a quarter of Western medicines are based on ingredients found in tropical rainforests, but scientists have been able to test only about 1 percent as they look for additional medicinal benefits. Fruits that grow in these rainforests number about 3,000, yet the Western world is familiar with less than 10 percent of them.

Some scientists recommend spreading the word about the importance of the rainforests through education, and advocate public support of businesses that conduct their work in the least damaging ways. They also recommend tropical rainforest conservation and restoration, suggesting the replacement of trees that have been harvested. Some advocates say that tropical rainforest conservation should include the creation of rainforest parks, specially protected areas, to ensure the survival of the unique environment.

A tropical rainforest is a forest ecosystem that experiences heavy rainfall, approximately 6.5 feet (198.12 centimeters) annually. These unique forests grow in areas located between the Tropic of Capricorn and the Tropic of Cancer. The tropical rainforests have many growth layers, including a heavy overhead canopy of trees and a dense understory. The enormous diversity of species on land within a tropical rainforest can be compared to the great diversity of marine life found in the sea on coral reefs.

Tropical rainforest conservation involves the protection and sustainable management of tropical rainforests to preserve their biodiversity, ecological functions, and the benefits they provide to local communities and the global environment. This includes measures to prevent deforestation, promote reforestation, and support policies that reduce harmful impacts on these critical ecosystems.

Conserving tropical rainforests is crucial because they are home to over half of the world's species, serve as significant carbon sinks combating climate change, and are vital for the livelihoods of many indigenous communities. According to the Rainforest Action Network, rainforests also play a key role in regulating global weather patterns and providing essential ecosystem services.

The primary threats to tropical rainforests include deforestation due to logging, agriculture, and cattle ranching; mining; infrastructure development; and climate change. The World Wildlife Fund reports that 17% of the Amazon rainforest has been lost in the last 50 years, mainly due to human activities, highlighting the urgency of addressing these threats.

Individuals can contribute to tropical rainforest conservation by reducing their carbon footprint, supporting sustainable products, avoiding those that contribute to deforestation, and donating to organizations that protect rainforests. Educating oneself and others about the importance of rainforests and advocating for policies that protect these areas are also powerful ways to help.

Indigenous communities are often the most effective stewards of tropical rainforests, as they have a deep understanding of the ecosystems and rely on them for their way of life. Studies, such as those by the World Resources Institute, have shown that legal recognition of indigenous land rights leads to better forest preservation outcomes.

Tropical rainforest conservation benefits the global environment by maintaining biodiversity, which is essential for ecosystem resilience. Rainforests also store vast amounts of carbon, helping to mitigate climate change. The United Nations Environment Programme states that forests absorb about 2 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide annually, underscoring their role in the global carbon cycle.