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How to Save Rainforest Animals

More than half of the world's rainforests have been destroyed in the last few decades to make way for development and agriculture. As a result, rainforest animals are fast disappearing too, with hundreds of species going extinct each year. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature has officially classed thousands more as endangered. On an individual level, you can help save rainforest animals in different ways.

Instructions

- 1
  Buy local produce. Beef, palm oil (found in products ranging from margarine to chocolate), coffee, and soya are just some of the products produced where rainforests used to be. Support local farmers rather than damaging agricultural methods.
- 2
  Buy sustainable imports. When you must buy imported produce, ensure it comes from sustainable farming techniques. Look for "fair trade," "organic" and "sustainable" on labels.
- 3
  Sponsor a tract of rainforest. Environmental and conservation charities make it possible for individuals or groups to buy small areas of rainforest. The multiple ownership makes it very difficult for developers to get their hands on the land.
- 4
  Recycle waste. The extraction of raw materials such as bauxite for aluminium destroys habitats, including rainforest. Reduce the demand for raw materials by recycling your trash, and you will reduce damaging mining for the raw materials.
- 5
  Raise awareness by educating others about the rainforests. Involve your community, school, religious group or youth group in educational activities such as making posters. Remember to focus on the positive things people can do rather than just the negative facts about disappearing rainforests.

Animals & Science