Earth’s lungs on fire: Miss Earth SA finalist speaks out
In this week's column by Miss Earth SA finalist, Sine Shabalala. #SinesSustainableSuggestions include much needed info about a catastrophe taking place in Brazil.
DID you know about what’s happening with the lungs of the planet?
The Amazon rainforest has been burning for weeks at a record rate, adding to an already alarming level of deforestation.
The Amazon is the world’s largest rainforest and a key ally in fighting the climate crisis. It’s meant to absorb carbon, not produce it.
ALSO READ: Hundreds of new fires in Brazil as Amazon outrage grows
The trees in the Amazon contain up to 140 billion tonnes of carbon. That’s the equivalent of what humans produce in 100 years. Put simply, there’s no way we can fight the climate crisis without stopping the destruction of our forests.
Despite covering only 1 per cent of the planet’s surface, the Amazon is home to 10 per cent of all the wildlife species we know about, and there are probably many more yet to be discovered. It’s devastating to see this precious place burning.
ALSO READ: Five things to know about the Amazon
We’re all outraged and heartbroken but here’s what you can do
1. Show your concern: Share this story to your social media, tag friends, family and influencers. The more voices we have the louder the call.
2. Educate yourself: The more you know about this crisis the more can be done.
3. Think about the things you eat. Food production is the leading cause of deforestation as land is being cleared to rear livestock.
4. Donate for rainforest conservation : There are so many organisations and petitions that you could support to help combat this issue.
Do you want to receive alerts regarding this and other Highway community news via Telegram? Send us a Telegram message (not an SMS) with your name and surname (ONLY) to 060 532 5409.
You can also join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
PLEASE NOTE: If you have signed up for our news alerts you need to save the Telegram number as a contact to your phone, otherwise you will not receive our alerts.
Here’s where you can download Telegram on Android or Apple.
To receive our free newsletter click here.
