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Forests help maintain the ecological balance of a large number of biologically diverse species that we all depend on to filter our air and water and breathe life into our soils. Forests provide cultural and economic resources for all of us and more notably the local populations that rely on these natural systems to sustain their way of life. Yet the worldwide demand for trees for construction, paper, furniture and fuel threatens the unique biodiversity of our forests and the health of our planet when trees are harvested in an unsustainable manner.
Unsustainable harvesting practices have a devastating impact on species that live in these areas as their habitats are lost or disrupted. In addition, the cultural and economic values of the people indigenous to these areas are threatened. And, when forest vegetation and soils are disturbed, they release stored carbon into the atmosphere as greenhouse gases, reversing the forest's role as a carbon sink and storage system (similar to a sponge that soaks up carbon dioxide emissions), and making it a climate change contributor.
Responsibly managed forests help maintain biodiversity, local ways of life, soil, vegetation and natural climate regulation. Conservation, sustainable practices and the building of markets for sustainably harvested forest products are integral to the health of forests and the economy.
Sources: Environment Canada: www.ec.gc.ca and Natural Resources Canada: www.nrcan.gc.ca.
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