Things you can do for Global Day of Action for the Rainforest
The fifth of September marks the Global Day of Action for the Rainforest.
The fifth of September marks the Global Day of Action for the Rainforest.
Recent weeks have propelled the Amazon into everybody’s mind as news of the fires currently spreading across the Amazon rainforest make headlines.
Since these headlines, different approaches have been taken to help fight the fires.
A 60 day ban has been set up in Brazil, making it illegal to use forest fires to free up land. Increased money has been given to charities such as Amazon Watch and Amazon Rainforest Relief to help fight the fires. Norway has also urged its companies that are doing business in Brazil to ensure that they are not contributing to the destruction of the rainforest by ensuring that they have sustainable supply chains.
Global Day of Action for the Rainforest is the perfect day to focus on what we can do to help reduce deforestation.
Here are some things which we can all do to make a change.
- Protest
On Global Day of Action for the Amazon, Amazon Watch, the National Articulation of the Indigenous Peoples of Brazil (APIB), and Extinction rebellion are partnering to host the Global Day of Action.
They are encouraging people to take non-violent actions, focusing their demonstrations on Brazilian embassies or consulates, along with the offices of corporations which are profiting from the Amazon deforestation, in order to encourage action to be taken.
Protests have already begun around the world.
Keep up with the #sept5act4amazonia on twitter to find protests and demonstrations happening near you, as well as keep up with protests happening around the world.
2. Get Political
Write to your local MP or representative. Encourage them to use their position to pressure governmental change.
The EU has recently signed a trade deal with Mercosur, a trade bloc which includes Brasil, yet this trade deal is yet to be confirmed. Ireland and France have already begun to use this deal as leverage to increase action to fight deforestation.
Pressure your government to do the same.
3. Change your spending habits
Support companies that have a sustainable supply chain and that don’t contribute to deforestation.
Brands under the VF group, which include North Face, Vans and Timberland, have stopped buying Brazilian leather until the government shows its commitment in reducing climate change.
Research into the supply chain of companies that you purchase from and try to purchase from companies which are increasing the sustainability of their supply chain. Brand’s such as Kellogs, Nestle and Unilever continue to source from palm oil groups which are driving deforestation.
Use your money to demand for change.
4. Reduce your meat consumption.
Brazil is the largest producer and exporter of beef in the world, and nearly 50% of Brazilian livestock is raised in fields that used to be in the rainforest. International demand for beef is growing and has become a key driver for deforestation in the Amazon.
The EU imports over $600 million worth of Beef from Brazil each year.
By reducing your demand for beef, a clear message is sent to corporations that change is needed.
5. Support Indigenous Populations.
Research has found that indigenous populations take better care of the Amazon Rainforest. Donate to charities that work with Indigenous allies, directly supporting them in defending their territory, such as Amazon Watch.
This work is incredibly important as Mr Bolsonaro is trying to reduce Indigenous population’s influence and rights to the Amazon.