During the just concluded COP27, the WWF published the "Living Amazon Report" to communicate the state of the Amazon rainforest and invite humanity to recognize the richness of nature, its ecosystem services and how everything is interconnected, to inspire the action beyond the borders of countries and act urgently to save it.
Based on the latest research available, the Report demonstrates that, without immediate action, the Amazon rainforest could reach a tipping point, with serious consequences for the livelihoods of the 47 million people living in the area (511 indigenous population groups), for 10% of the planet's biodiversity and for climate change. At serious risk would also be some iconic species such as the jaguar.
The report shows that 18% of Amazonian forests have been converted to other uses and a further 17% are highly degraded, mainly due to the expansion of agriculture and cattle ranching, as well as land grabbing and speculation. Forest loss is also associated with unsustainable and illegal logging, uncontrolled fires and poorly planned infrastructure.
The jaguar needs large areas of territory to satisfy its essential needs. For this reason, the destruction of the habitat is one of the main threats to its survival: its range has been reduced by more than 50%. The illegal wildlife trade is responsible for thousands of animals being killed each year. Furthermore, with the increase of the predations of domestic livestock by hungry jaguars due to the progressive disappearance of their preys, unfortunately the conflicts with the local communities are getting worse.
According to the WWF, to protect at least 80% of the Amazon rainforest, it will be necessary to extend the mosaic of protected indigenous areas and territories that currently cover only half of the Amazon, as well as an appropriate political commitment that directly addresses the main drivers of loss of the Amazon. Amazonia such as deforestation, illegal mining, corruption, indiscriminate exploitation of wildlife and other natural resources, and infrastructure designed without considering their impact on ecosystems.
What can we do to help Jaguars and biodiversity in the Amazon? Of course one of the best ways is to use only wood coming from certified forests, where the management of timber exploitation is carefully planned, monitored and certified. The many uses of bamboo in furniture, building industry and everyday-use objects, can be a valid alternative to more expensive woods not only in economic terms, but also in respect of its environmental impact. Bamboo is a very robust plant, grows very fast and expands so extensively that bamboo harvesting has a positive impact wherever it is cultivated - see our Bamboo collection.
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