Today forests are disappearing from the face of the globe. Despite growing international concern, forests continue to be destroyed at a pace exceeding 80,000 acres (32,000 hectares) per day. Much of the remaining area is impacted by human activities and no longer retains its full original biodiversity.
Deforestation of forests has a global impact through species extinction, the loss of important ecosystem services and renewable resources, and the reduction of carbon sinks. However, this destruction can be slowed, stopped, and in some cases even reversed.
The solution must be based on what is feasible, not overly idealistic, and depends on developing a conservation approach built on the principle of sustainable use and development of forests. Beyond the responsible development of forests, efforts to rehabilitate and restore degraded forest lands along with the establishment of protected areas are key to securing forests for the long-term benefits they can provide mankind.