If tropical deforestation were a country, its carbon dioxide-equivalent emissions would be about the same as the United States. Scientists warn that deforestation is pushing the Amazon closer toward a tipping point of ecosystem collapse, turning lush jungle into a dry savannah that emits more carbon dioxide than it absorbs. 

We can’t afford to lose millions of acres of tropical forest every year. These forests are not disposable. They’re home to many Indigenous Peoples and more biodiversity than any other terrestrial ecosystem, including wildlife like pink river dolphins, jaguars and poison dart frogs. 

Indigenous Peoples manage more than 30% of the Amazon rainforest and often use low-impact, sustainable practices. But reward for that stewardship is often lacking. 

Fighting deforestation isn’t just a nice-to-have. To prevent global warming from reaching catastrophic levels, we must protect and restore tropical forests while supporting the Indigenous Peoples who defend them. 

EDF is helping save large-scale tropical forests and deliver significant economic benefits to Indigenous Peoples through our work with the Lowering Emissions by Accelerating Forest finance (LEAF) Coalition and the Tropical Forest Credit Integrity Guide for Companies.  

The progress we’re making together gives me hope that we can move the needle to reverse deforestation. Please chip in by midnight tonight and unlock $3 with every $1 you give, maximizing your impact to protect tropical forests and build a vital Earth, for everyone.  

Thank you in advance, 

Sam Parry 
Director, Membership