Deforestation refers to widespread destruction of forests or wooded areas. It involves the conversion of forested land into non-forest uses, such as logging, agriculture, urban development, or the expansion of infrastructure. According to The National Geographic, roughly 2000 years ago, 80% of western Europe was forested; this has significantly decreased to only 34% today. It has been said that approximately 27,000 trees are destroyed each day to make toilet paper!
Forests play a crucial role in maintaining the planets health. They act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and helping to regulate climate. Felling trees releases carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere, contributing to increased greenhouse gas emissions, exasperating climate change.
When forests are cleared, the exposed soil is vulnerable to erosion by wind and water, leading to soil degradation and decreased agricultural productivity. Trees help anchor the soil, preventing erosion and promoting its fertility.
Forests are home to an array of plant and animal species, many which are endemic and found nowhere else. Deforestation disrupts ecosystems, destroys habitats, and threatens the survival of numerous species. It contributes to the loss of biodiversity and the extinction of many plant and animal species.
How is bamboo any different we hear you ask?
Bamboo is known for its rapid regrowth and high carbon sequestration capacity. It absorbs CO2 from the atmosphere through photosynthesis, storing carbon in its stalks and roots. When mature bamboo is harvested, new shoots regrow very quicky, continuing the cycle of carbon absorption. This process contributes to the carbon neutrality of sustainably managed bamboo farms. And, unlike trees, when bamboo is harvested, the roots stay intact, storing nutrients for the next harvest and preventing soil erosion. More information about why we chose bamboo can be found here: https://www.bumboo.eco/pages/why-bamboo-toilet-roll.How can we help reduce deforestation?
Making small changes to every day habits can help reduce deforestation. Switching from virgin-wood toilet paper, kitchen towels and facial tissues, to a sustainable alternative, such as bamboo or recycled paper products, is a great place to start. You could also choose to support businesses who use their profits to plant trees in areas affected by deforestation - restoring degraded lands through reforestation efforts is essential.
It is our mission to reduce deforestation and protect our planet for future generations. By choosing Bumboo toilet paper, not only are you helping to reduce deforestation, but a tree is planted for every box purchased, helping to restore our forests, and our planet.
Photo credit: Ales Krivec @unsplash
Source: https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/deforestation/
