About reforestation

 

Reforestation refers to the process of replanting and restoring forests that once existed but have been lost or degraded, much of it due to deforestation for agricultural clearing. The main goals behind reforestation efforts are often to prevent climate change and to restore ecosystems and wildlife habitats.

 

Reforestation plays an important role in restoring the planet’s ecological balance and reducing the effects of climate change. One of the most significant benefits is carbon sequestration which means that trees absorb atmospheric carbon dioxide and in return releases oxygen. Trees act as natural air purifiers by removing pollutants from the air by absorbing them into their leaves and bark. The roots of trees are also essential in preventing soil erosion as they bind the soil together. This stabilization of the ground also contributes to flood and landslide prevention. 

 

Forests also provide habitats for over 80% of the world’s biodiversity, making it essential for protecting endangered species and preserving ecosystems. This is especially true in the Atlantic Rainforest which is one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet. Although only 12% of its original coverage remains, the Atlantic Forest is still home to a wide variety of species of both plants and animals, many of which are found nowhere else. Protecting and restoring this forest is therefore critical for biodiversity conservation.

 

Beyond climate and biodiversity, forests are also essential for securing water. Trees play a huge role in regulating the water cycle by absorbing rainfall, storing it in the soil and then gradually releasing it through transpiration. This helps maintain humidity levels and creates clouds and rainfall patterns. In the Atlantic Rainforest, deforestation has led to the drying up of spring and rivers, directly impacting local communities and agriculture. Since the loss of forests reduces the soil’s ability to retain water, it causes both droughts and floods to become more frequent. Therefore, reforesting these areas is essential in supporting both ecosystems and human livelihoods.