The AMAZON TRAILBLAZER

On this trip we spent time in the Amazon, in Brazil. This is only one Country in the Amazon of the total of 9 Countries. The entire Amazon covers an area the size of our 48 States (2.7 million square miles) and most of it is endangered. With its 390 billion trees, 2.5 million species of insects, 1400 species of butterflies, 430 species of animals and 1300 species of bird, each day more become extinct. What’s endangered? 8000 species of plants (of 40,000), 2300 species of animals, and 10% of the entire world's biodiversity. Currently, 4000 - 6000 species are lost for every 1% of deforestation and 35% of the forest has been destroyed or degraded. The worst piece of data is that Brazil has had 17% deforestation and is looking like it will by up 25% in the not too distant future. 25% translates into a non-recoverable disaster.

As the temperature of the water rises, there is less water, less water flow and animals, dolphins, other fish and plants are dying. In many places there is a drought, and the dry season is getting longer. It is estimated that if we reach a point where the increase in temperature change hits 5 degrees Fahrenheit, we will be at the point of no return to “fix the World” and there will be an ecological disaster. In addition, we will run out of oxygen as the Amazon is producing 20% of the entire Worlds supply. As for deforestation, all the trees being taken down are destroying wildlife, the ecosystem, the ground is eroding quickly and eliminating much of the critical rain in the forest. As for the indigenous people that live here, over a million people that live in unison with nature and their environment are losing their way of living. Lastly, medical science depends on the fact that 25% of all medications are plant based that are disappearing, not to mention scientists have only studied about 5% of the plants in the forest.

We must help slow this down. Look where the products and minerals you purchase come from and don’t buy them from Brazil. Also, don't buy Mahogany and Ebon which is often sourced from Brazilian trees. Support the companies that actively pursue Amazon management and climate change.Read more