The Amazon Rain Forest, the world's largest rainforest, is known as the 'Lungs of the Earth'. It supplies 20% of the world's oxygen and is home to numerous plant and animal species. But sadly, climate change is posing a major threat to this precious resource.

amazon forest

Temperature rise:

Due to climate change, the temperature of the Amazon is increasing rapidly. Over the past century, the average temperature has increased by about 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Changes in rainfall patterns are also being observed, increasing the incidence of severe droughts and floods.
Effects of this change:

Deforestation: Rising temperatures and droughts are increasing the risk of deforestation. Fires spread quickly and cause extensive damage in dry environments. In 2019, a record number of fires broke out in the Amazon, destroying large swathes of forest.
Loss of Biodiversity: Numerous plant and animal species are at risk of extinction due to deforestation and habitat loss.
Increase in carbon emissions: Deforestation increases the amount of carbon in the atmosphere which exacerbates climate change.
Impact on local communities: Indigenous and other local communities are at risk of losing their livelihoods and culture as a result of deforestation.
solution

Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions by reducing dependence on fossil fuels and investing in renewable sources is essential to combat the effects of climate change.
Forest Conservation: Strict measures should be taken to prevent deforestation and increase afforestation programmes.
Sustainable forest management: It is important to work with local communities to ensure sustainable use of forest resources.
Awareness raising: Educating the public about climate change and its effects on the Amazon rainforest is essential.
The Amazon rainforest is essential to the Earth. We all have a responsibility to protect it from the adverse effects of climate change. The Amazon rainforest is an essential resource for the Earth, acting as a powerful buffer against climate change.