While the world uses wood and other forest resources at an unchecked pace for the purpose of modern living, we do not realize the impact that these unsustainable practices have created. Every day, 80,000 acres of rainforest are lost, even though there is heavy international disapproval over such deforestation. Global organisations have initiated many programs of education and conservation. Yet, the mission requires an integrated social, environmental and economic approach. Here is how children can help play their part in saving this essential asset.

1. Buy sustainable products

Brands today are increasingly advertising the sustainability measures they have incorporated into their production and workflow. Sustainability includes measures that are safe for environment, for the wildlife in the region, and for people, including labourers. Children can be the voice of consumer changing, by asking their parents and their friends to opt for products that have been created sustainably. You should look at every single product you own, and explore how it, in some ways, is linked to the rainforests. This will raise your consciousness towards Mother Nature.

2. Learn about the rainforests

The internet is one of the greatest gifts towards inclusive education. Identify forums and read books on sustainable development, as well as the biodiversity of rainforests. At school, undertake research assignments to develop an understanding of flora and fauna at rainforests. You can even create a short skit, a story, or a presentation on rainforests, their value to humanity, and deforestation. Also, learn about people and communities associated with rainforests.Seek to understand how people depend on rainforest plants and animals for their daily lives.

3. Fundraising and support

As a 21st-century school student, you have at your disposal a large array of options to drive support. Leading NGOs like Save the Children run several projects simultaneously, which signifies the need for online campaigns for fundraising. On sites like Facebook and Twitter, you can share and Like posts, learn about events, campaign achievements, and other important updates. You can also use these platforms to involve more people. Talk to your parents about the importance of giving back to society, and ask them to donate to NGO fundraising.

4. Recycle paper

Recycling is one of the easiest ways of living in a sustainable way. It allows you to extend the lives of the products you use, albeit in a different way. Demand for paper, which is made from wood, has led to deforestation. Paper is also the easiest recyclable product; it can be used for taking notes, for colouring, and also be cut up and made into little slips of paper for taking a quick note, and then recycled to make paper products. You can also motivate your parents and friends to use less paper, by opting for online alternatives and try to ‘go paper free’ as much as possible. You can also look into your school’s paper recycling policy, and ask your teachers to opt for environmentally friendly paper.

Conclusion

Home to half the world’s species, rainforests are the guardians of the Earth’s ecosystems. They also reduce carbon dioxide and are essential for maintaining climate stability, while providing innumerable historical and medicinal wonders. Just as ancient societies have learned to live sustainably with the land, so can the modern world. Being a child is not a hindrance to the number of things you can achieve. Every single individual has the opportunity to make a difference to society, in one or another. As supporters, anyone can also amplify the ongoing contributions of others.