Amazon forest fires are threatening thousands of tropical forest creatures

2020 was a record year for wildfires according to Brazil's National Institute for Space Research (INPE).

According to WWF (World Wildlife Fund), Amazon rainforest fires have increased threats to 265 species of plants and animals that are threatened with extinction.

The Amazon forest, home to about a million indigenous people and three million species of plants and animals, has seen a record number of fires this year. According to the National Institute for Space Research (Inpe), 72,843 fires were detected between January and August.

WWF says 'worst bushfires may remain at risk of further recurrence', increasing threat to species including giant anteater and giant armadillo, along with 124 species Other flora and fauna only live in the Amazon forest.

'Biological heritage'

Environmental defenders and scientists have pointed out that the main cause of the fire is the policy of Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro, who has pledged to develop the area for farming and mining. when he took office in January, despite warnings from conservationists surrounding deforestation.

Now WWF is calling on politicians and corporations to take responsibility and try to protect the forest and its inhabitants. Mauricio Voivodic, executive director of WWF Brazil, said: "We need to protect and maintain forests. Governments and societies need to speak out that it is no longer acceptable to destroy our own biological heritage.

"The federal government needs to ensure that protected areas and indigenous lands are effectively protected from illegal deforestation activities. The corporate sector also has an important role to play in monitoring the chain our supply to ensure products do not come from deforestation."

Every year, the area of ​​the Amazon forest is shrinking, and despite many measures being instituted, the main cause of these severe forest fires is excessive meat consumption. To prevent this, you can switch to a vegan, plant-based diet to reduce the burden of greenhouse gas emissions, as well as the risk of burning forests to make room for livestock. If you need more nutrition knowledge and tips to start your vegan journey, join the completely free 7-day vegan challenge to get advice from the experts.