Why Forests Matter So Much to All of Us

I live in a pond, but a clear pond needs a healthy forest around it. Forests and water are close friends! Let’s find out why forests matter so much.

1. Home to most land creatures

Forests cover about a third of Earth’s land, yet they’re home to most land-dwelling animal and plant species. From birds, insects, and orangutans to tiny mushrooms on fallen logs, they all depend on each other.

Indonesia has one of the largest tropical rainforests in the world, which means many unique creatures can only be found here.

2. Natural lungs and “air conditioning”

Trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Forests also store huge amounts of carbon in their trunks, roots, and soil. When forests are cut or burned, that carbon escapes into the air and helps heat up the planet.

Under the shade of trees, the air feels cooler. Forests help keep the temperature and humidity around them steady.

3. Guardians of water and soil

Tree roots hold the soil together so it doesn’t slide away in heavy rain.
Forest soil works like a sponge: it soaks up rain and releases it slowly into rivers and wells. That’s why areas with damaged forests flood more easily in the rainy season and dry out in the dry season.
On the coast, mangrove forests protect beaches from erosion and big waves, and are nurseries for fish and crabs (hi, Kori!).

4. What can we do?

You don’t have to be an environmental expert to help protect forests. Small steps count:

Save paper. Use both sides, choose digital notes, or use recycled paper.
Choose responsible products. Look for labels like FSC on wood and paper products.
Never burn trash or land. A small fire can grow into a big one, especially in the dry season.
Plant and care for trees, however small your yard is.
When visiting nature, take your trash home and stay on the trails.

A forest takes decades to grow but can vanish in a day. Protecting it is much easier than growing it back. 🌳