How to Save The Trees: 5 Ways to Protect Our Forests

From the boreal forests in Canada to the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil, breathtaking forests populate huge swaths of our planet. Unfortunately, fires, loggers, and more destroy these trees at an alarming rate. If you want to learn how to save the trees, you’ve come to the right place.

Educating yourself is the crucial first step in the fight for the earth’s forests. Once you know how to protect our forests, you can go out and show others how to save trees too! In this article we’ll discuss these 5 ways that you can preserve our forest:

1. Planting Trees
2. Buy Rain Forest Alliance Certified Products
3. Support Conversation Organizations
4. Use Tree-Free Products
5. Enjoy Forests Responsibly
6. Learn About Forests
7. Be A Climate Change Advocate
8. Know How to Properly Recycle
9. Opt-In to Paperless Billing
10. Unsubscribe From Magazines You Don't Read
11. Buy Second-Hand Books or Get a Library Card
12. Use Digital Alternatives Like E-Books
13. Reuse Shipping Boxes and Wrapping Paper

Read on to learn more about protecting our forests.

The Importance of Healthy Forests

Almost 2 billion people rely on the world’s forests for their livelihoods. Without these mighty forests, these people will lose their primary sources of water, food, shelter, and income.

Perhaps more importantly, though, is the impact of trees on the environment. Among other things, tree species clean the air and directly fight climate change. When large amounts of carbon dioxide build up in the air, lush forests absorb that CO2 and turn it into breathable oxygen, reducing air pollution.

For these reasons and the beauty of our planet, it’s important that you protect forests by following some of the tips shared above. Learning how to save trees is one of the most powerful things you can do to help the planet.

1. Tree Planting

Without a doubt, the easiest way to support trees is to go out and plant trees yourself. Whether you plant a single new tree in your backyard or plant trees with a group, your actions will have a significant positive impact on the planet and climate change.

According to the National Wildlife Federation, just one tree will absorb more than one ton of carbon dioxide in its lifetime. That’s equivalent to more than 2,000 miles driven by the average car.

2. Buy Rain Forest Alliance Certified Products

Part of learning how to save trees is educating yourself about how products impact the environment. For example, Rain Forest Alliance Certified products support sustainable forest management and allow forest-reliant communities to thrive.

Furthermore, Rain Forest Alliance Certified products also ensure that everyone involved in the production process is treated and paid fairly. They stay true to their goal of creating a world where “people and mother nature thrive in harmony.”

3. Support Conservation Organizations

Sometimes you can’t directly protect trees. Luckily, there are plenty of organizations out there that help support the world’s forests. We’ve put together a list of a few organizations to get you started.

• Plant a Tree Today supports forests and green living.
• World Wide Fund for Nature promotes global nature and wildlife habitat conservation.
• One Tree Planted plants trees in various countries around the world.

Another unique organization is Ecosia —  the sustainable search engine. Unlike other search engines, Ecosia uses its profits for tree planting. Additionally, each search removes carbon emissions from the atmosphere, and Ecosia completely protects all user data.

4. Use Tree-Free Products

Tree-free alternatives to traditional wood or paper products are becoming more and more popular. Bamboo products, in particular, are rising to prominence. Bamboo toilet paper, toothbrushes, paper towels, and more have become modern green staples.

Moreover, bamboo products are soft, strong, and wholly sustainable! Once they’ve been harvested, bamboo stalks begin to grow back almost immediately without the need for reseeding or fertilizer. At Reel, we also offer bulk toilet paper so that you can save money while helping the planet.

5. Enjoy Forests Responsibly

Going out into nature and enjoying our existing forests for yourself is a big part of learning how to save trees. Once you get outside and appreciate all that our forests have to offer, you’ll be filled with a new vigor for protecting the planet.

We can all enjoy the beauty of our planet’s trees, but we must do so responsibly. Following the Leave No Trace code of ethics allows everyone to safely enjoy the outdoors without hurting it.

6. Learn About Forests

Understanding the vital role that forests play in our ecosystem is crucial. Spend some time researching different types of forests, their unique ecosystems, the threats they face, and how deforestation affects the environment. Knowledge is power, and the more you know, the better equipped you'll be to advocate for and protect these vital resources. Consider taking a forestry course, joining webinars, or reading up on forest conservation efforts.

7. Be A Climate Change Advocate

Become a voice for our planet! Advocating for policies that combat climate change is a powerful way to protect forests. Support legislation that aims to reduce carbon emissions, fund renewable energy projects, and prevent deforestation. Engage with your community and local representatives to raise awareness about the importance of forest conservation in mitigating climate change. Your voice matters and can inspire others to take action.

8. Know How to Properly Recycle

What happens if we stop recycling? Proper recycling can significantly reduce the demand for new paper products, thereby saving trees. Make sure you're aware of your local recycling guidelines and follow them meticulously. Recycling paper, cardboard, and other recyclable materials helps minimize waste and preserve forest resources. Every little bit counts, so let’s recycle right!

9. Opt-In to Paperless Billing

Switching to paperless billing is a simple yet effective way to reduce paper consumption. Most banks, utilities, and service providers offer electronic billing options. By opting for digital statements and paying your bills online, you can cut down on paper waste and help save trees. Plus, it's easier to manage and track your finances digitally.

10. Unsubscribe From Magazines You Don't Read

If you're receiving magazines or catalogs that you rarely read, it's time to unsubscribe. Reducing the demand for printed materials helps lower the number of trees cut down for paper production. Instead, consider subscribing to digital versions of your favorite magazines. Enjoy the same great content without the environmental impact.

11. Buy Second-Hand Books or Get a Library Card

Buying second-hand books or borrowing from the library are fantastic ways to enjoy reading without contributing to deforestation. Used bookstores and online marketplaces offer a treasure trove of pre-loved books waiting to be read. Libraries not only provide access to countless titles but also foster a sense of community and shared resources. So, grab a library card and start exploring!

12. Use Digital Alternatives Like E-Books

Opt for e-books and audiobooks to reduce your paper footprint. These digital alternatives are not only convenient but also significantly reduce the need for paper. E-readers and audiobook apps offer vast libraries of content at your fingertips, making it easier than ever to read sustainably. Plus, you can carry an entire library with you wherever you go!

13. Reuse Shipping Boxes and Wrapping Paper

Before throwing away shipping boxes and wrapping paper, consider how you can repurpose them. These materials can serve multiple purposes, from storage solutions to gift wrapping. By giving them a second life, you reduce waste and the demand for new paper products, ultimately helping to save trees. Plus, it’s a fun and eco-friendly way to add a personal touch to your gifts and home organization. Learn more about packaging waste in our blog.

Saving Forests One Tree at a Time

Tree care may seem intimidating, but it’s really far easier than you think. Everyone — no matter how young or old — has the power to protect our existing forests.

Whether you’re buying bamboo toilet paper or planting trees on your own, your actions will have a positive impact on the world around you. Its effects might not be immediately evident, but the planet and future generations will thank you.

How do you save trees at home? Drop a comment and let us know!