Why Reforestation?
» Global warming is a threat to the well-being our global ecosystem and economy. Rising temperatures are leading us to significant climate change and rising sea levels. Global warming is occurring as we emit greenhouse gasses (carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide) into the atmosphere. These greenhouse gasses act as an insulator in our atmosphere trapping solar radiation. Tropical reforestation is one of the most effective methods of sequestering carbon dioxide emissions. (For more information on global warming click here.)

» The tropical rainforests of Costa Rica are considered one of the world's biodiversity hotspots. These rainforests are home to over 500,000 different species of living organisms. This small country contains 4% of the total species estimated worldwide. Many of the native plants have medicinal value, and there remain many plants that are undiscovered or have untested medicinal properties. There are currently 121 prescription drugs sold worldwide that are derived from rainforest plants. Twenty-five percent of the active ingredients in today's cancer-fighting drugs come from organisms found only in the rainforest. Without protection and re-growth of these rainforests, we risk losing this immense reservoir of genetic resources. (For more information on biodiversity click here.)

» The long-term economic sustainability of small-scale farmers in Costa Rica relies on careful planning of integrating reforestation with agricultural practices. Hillsides that have been clear-cut for agricultural production are extremely susceptible to erosion in areas that receive up to 10 meters of rain annually. This creates flooding, washing away the nutrient-rich topsoil and contaminating the water supply. The planting of trees along waterways to prevent erosion and to maintain water quality must be a priority.