Save the trees

Deforestation is progressing at an alarming rate – forests cover around 30% of the world’s land area but 3% was lost between 1990 and 2005. Deforestation leads to soil erosion and increased flood risk, and is associated with around 15-20% of global CO₂ emissions. Take a look at the Global Forest Watch interactive map to see how much tree cover has been lost over the last 15 years.

How you can help save the forests

• Only use paper for essential things – avoid printing too much
• Use or make your own recycled paper
• Plant a tree
• Buy second-hand furniture
• Spread the word to friends and family
• Join or support forest organisations (see related links)

Find out more:

European Forest Institute

EU forests and forest-related policies

EU’s Biodiversity Strategy for 2020.

A new EU Forest Strategy: for forests and the forest-based sector (2013)

Forest management plans or equivalent instruments

Forest focus regulation to protect forests against atmospheric pollution and fires

The Living Forest (Greenpeace) – international essay competition and debate for schools