Hello,

We have entered the last month of 2021. Usually, this month is all about Christmas and ringing in the New Year.  However, it is of utmost importance to divert our attention and pay attention to the drastic climatic changes that the world has been experiencing. All these unnatural occurrences, along with the Pandemic, point in one direction – protecting the world resources and their sustainable utilization.

Similar to last month’s Fruit Series, this month Tequila Bubbles aims at bringing forth the vitality of maintaining the primary source of life on Earth- FORESTS!!!

Aah, now what has Forests got to do with Sustainability.

Sustainability is the method of using the naturally available limited resources to preserve them for future generations.
A couple of months back, we spoke about the importance of preserving the Natural Capital for life to continue on the planet. And, of course, forests form a very integral part of these resources.
But before we get into the details, let me ask you a question:

What are Forests?

I am sure you are wondering what sort of question this is this-A forest is a large area of land covered with trees. At the same time, some will try to be more specific by saying, umm, ”thousands of kilometers covered with dense foliage”.
Although primarily, this is what comes to mind, it is not the only aspect.

The reality is that Forests cover billions of hectares of land. And have their unique ecology and ways of expanding and existing. Moreover, there are separate ecosystems spread throughout the world.

Apart from the foliage, forest ecospheres have a buzzing life within them. And they have existed peacefully for many millennia- from fungi to microorganisms, the innumerable species of insects, birds, reptiles right up to mammals as large as the elephant. Moreover, countless trees found in the core areas of the jungle have medicinal properties. So far, scientists have succeeded in discovering a handful of them. Forests also play the vital role of holding the soil together and preventing its degradation.

Forests: The Lungs of the World

Food for Thought: I feel planting shrubs, pots, or trees (if you are blessed with a lawn area) is more beneficial than investing in manufactured air purifiers? What are your thoughts on this? Do comment in the section at the end of the post.
The green cover acts as natural purifiers through the process of PHOTOSYNTHESIS (Remember Biology class in school?). In simple terms, through this process, the trees ‘inhale’ carbon dioxide and ‘exhale’ life-supporting oxygen- an action similar to the human lungs.
The first half of this article is just a tiny overview of a topic, which can be a separate blog on its own.
However, coming to the focal point:

What is Forest Sustainability?

As you can see, complexities exist in a forest. It is imperative to realize that the ecosystem requires intelligent utilization for the upcoming generation to enjoy their beauty and yields.
A sneak peeks into a few of the yields and utility of Forests:
1. The absolute obvious one. Forests provide wood for building homes, furniture and have industrial uses.
2. Rubber trees are the source of Latex that is applied in a variety of day-to-day products.
3. Similarly, dry fruits, fruits, spices, and other such edibles grow on trees.
4. Forests also serve as dwellings for the various communities that reside in the innermost areas of the foliage. Surprisingly, these indigenous tribes have been present since time immemorial.
5. Also, it provides employment opportunities in various industries, like logging, timber, and honey.
6. Certain trees have medicinal properties. Like Aspirin is obtained from the Willow Tree.

The above are just a few examples of the multipurpose use of forests.

Governments and Industries all around the world depend on forest produce to conduct their activities.
But as it is becoming more evident- Forest cover is shrinking at an alarming rate. And therefore, it is becoming essential to undertake sustainable practices to safeguard these non-renewable sources.
Like the Amazon Rainforests, the ancient forests are irretrievable if they are destroyed due to continuous exploitation. Life on Earth will become problematic if humanity finishes the most extensive forest cover.

Reference

Therefore, it is crucial to plan each action and ensure the sustainable usage of resources. Canada is one of the leaders in having a forest management plan in place. They have undertaken some steps to ensure that the green cover is protected. Stringent laws regarding the felling of trees are in place.

For an excellent Forest Management program:

-The local villages and communities need to be involved as they are experts in the forest area.
-Governments and Organizations should undertake the task of replanting felled trees.

-It is crucial to curb the destruction of green cover at all costs. But if it becomes imperative, then people should utilize them to the fullest.

-They are practicing Silviculture- where landowners specifically cultivate trees for timber and guarantee the preservation of the area’s original forests, leading to the restoration of forest zones.

Facts:

However, these processes can only occur if every individual, society, and community pledges to stop rampant deforestation. Sadly, the dense foliage is hacked for Industrialization, Urbanization and to provide a livelihood to the poor sections of the societies.
However, some countries and individuals are rising to the situation. Youngsters and old all are requesting governments to utilize the available green cover sustainably. And they are also asking them to increase the percentage of land under forest cover.

Anyways,

BBye for now

See you all with the next article on what I call- Forests and US!!!