It’s important to look at the causes of deforestation, which are often specific to certain locations. Clearing forests for the production of beef in Brazil or palm oil in Indonesia are some of the most high-profile causes. Limiting our use of these products can help curb the demand that drives deforestation in these particular places. Wildfires are another reason forests might be reduced by large numbers.
A common cause of deforestation in Plant With Purpose’s program communities is ultimately poverty. From Haiti to Mexico to Burundi, we see many community members harvest trees that can be turned into charcoal and sold. This can provide immediate cash in a desperate situation but ultimately worsens poverty and soil damage. Reversing poverty can help eliminate the burden many families face that drives them to remove trees in their area.