As my title would have given away what the article is about, I would like to bring your attention to the reason as to why its pertinent that some action is taken. I would like to start off by explaining the significance of the rainforest.
Where is the Amazon based?
There are nine nations that share the Amazon, namely; Brazil, Peru, Venezula, Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Suiname and French Guiana. The Amazon covers about 35% of the South American continent.
What’s the fuss about Amazon?
The Amazon is referred to as the earths lungs, produces 20% of the oxygen in the earths atmosphere. As human, we will die without oxygen, so understanding why the Amazon is so pertinent to our existence, should be common knowledge and something that should get a lot of airtime. Beside the many species of animals, spiders, reptiles as well as sharks and eels that take shelter in this vast forest they call home, there is also communities and villages which reside close by.
What’s happening to the Amazon?
Due to the dry season in Brazil, wildfires often occur, but this year the fire was worst then normal, because farmers effort to deforest the land for cattle ranching. Nasa keeps track of all activity and thus far has detected 72, 000 fires between January and August and more then 9,500 forest fires since Thursday ( 15th August 2019), in the Amazon region.
Why is this bad?
Despite the fact that this fire is causing black outs to major cities, its causing people to flea their homes, due to the smoke coverage. The rain water has turned black. Because of the particulate matter in the atmosphere, it has changes the colour of the rain water. Because if the active fire, carbon monoxide is spreading, and exposure to carbon monoxide can harm to the respiratory system which can lead to asthma. Along with lung issues, there can also be stinging eyes, fast heartbeat, runny nose and a sore throat.
What can we do to help?
Firstly, we can educate ourselves and others.
Secondly, we can reduce, reuse and recycle. Paper comes from trees chopped down in the Amazon, less demand, in theory, means less deforestation. Lastly, Donate to a charity, there are six specific charities that have received four stars from the Charity Navigator , namely:
Amazon Conservation Association
Amazon Watch
Rainforest trust, but to name a few.
Usually in situations with such catastrophic outcomes and danger, many people turn a blind eye. But in this case, it’s not just South America that’s getting affected, it’s the entire world and all the wildlife who is going to end up with no home, not to mention the thousands of people that can die. Let our actions of today, make a difference to a better tomorrow.
Purple Empaths 