Why We Need Forests: The Arbor Day Foundation's Mission to Protect and Restore Global Forests

Forests are essential for life on Earth. They provide a wide range of ecosystem services that benefit both humans and the environment. From the air we breathe to the water we drink, forests play a critical role in maintaining the health of our planet. The Arbor Day Foundation is dedicated to protecting and restoring these vital ecosystems.

Forests are home to a vast array of plant and animal species, making them vital for biodiversity conservation. They provide habitat, food, and shelter for countless creatures, contributing to the intricate web of life. The Arbor Day Foundation recognizes the importance of preserving biodiversity and works to protect forests from deforestation and degradation.

Forests also help to regulate climate and water cycles. They absorb rainfall, prevent soil erosion, and filter pollutants, ensuring clean water supplies for communities. The Arbor Day Foundation's reforestation efforts help to restore these critical functions, ensuring the health of watersheds and the availability of clean water.

Beyond their ecological importance, forests also provide economic benefits. They are a source of timber, non-timber forest products (such as fruits, nuts, and medicinal plants), and support livelihoods through ecotourism and recreation. The Arbor Day Foundation promotes sustainable forestry practices that balance economic needs with environmental conservation, ensuring that forests can continue to provide benefits for generations to come.

However, forests face numerous threats, including deforestation, wildfires, and disease. The Arbor Day Foundation is actively involved in combating these threats through reforestation projects, public education campaigns, and advocacy for policies that protect forests.

You can help protect our planet's forests by supporting the Arbor Day Foundation. With every dollar you donate, you help plant a tree, bringing us closer to a greener, healthier future.