What are some of the effects of logging irresponsibly?
• Loss of bio-diversity. Many species live in, on, or near primary trees. When these trees are cut down, species lose their habitat, source of food, and shelter. Also, primary trees provide seeds for new trees to grow. When these trees are cut, the seed source is lost. • Extinctions. Many species can not live without trees. When trees are cut, animals lose their homes, source of food, and shelter. • Erosion. Trees and leaves (leaf litter) provide nutrients for the soil in rainforests. Without trees, a rainforest becomes barren and without life. Trees also prevent erosion by absorbing water, thus preventing the washing away of nutrients in the top-soil. • Flooding. Trees keep the soil stable by absorbing rain water. Rainforests receive 1,500-3,000 mm of water annually (hmmm, how many inches is that?) That’s a lot of water! Without trees, flooding and mud-slides can occur causing serious environmental and ecomonic damage. Seedlings (young plants) and existing trees can be wiped out as we
