Millions of years after its deposition their stored energy can be used as fuel when it is burned. When we look at where the increased greenhouse gas emissions are coming from, it is obvious that the industrialized nations are by far in the lead. The developed nations as a group contribute two thirds of the greenhouse gas emissions compared to one-third for the developing nations. The rain forests of the world have supported an incredibly rich array of plant and animal life for hundreds of thousands of years. The genetic diversity of their plant life has enriched our food crops and provided medical remedies.
Rain forests protect watersheds and prevent flash flooding.
On a global scale, rain forests play a major role in regulating world climate patterns. There is no question that Canadians use of energy could be considerably more efficient. The following key factors are the major contributors to Canadian energy use. About one third of both Canada s carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide emissions come from the transportation sector. Canada s 14 million automobiles and light trucks account for half of the carbon dioxide emissions from the transportation sector.