Deforestation is the permantant destruction of indigenous forests (cover 21% of the earth's surface) and woodlands. Deforestation is caused by the conversion of forests into agricultural land to feed large populations, develop cash crops for poor countries, and the logging industry. As of now, the area equivalent to 20 football fields is lost every minute to deforestation.

Agricultural Usage

Although the land used after deforestation is for agricultural purposes, the tropical climate in which these people live is not suitable for the raising for agriculture. Thus, crops may only last a few seasons, and land use and deforestation must increase to accomodate the need of the farming industry in  these small countries.

The Consequences of Deforestation
Important cycles of the environment can be effected by deforestation. The most prevalent and harmful, is the release of Carbon Dioxide emissions from the burning and rotting of the dead trees. This adds to the greenhouse gasses already a harmul contribution to Global Cooking. This severly disrupts the Carbon Cycle, but the water cycle is also effected. Because groundwater is absorbed by the roots of trees and evaporate from the leaves, the abscence of trees can create a much drier climate for the region. The removal of trees loosens soil and leads to soil errosion, which leads to the silting of bodies of water. This can kill wildlife and create undrinkable water sources for populations.
The United States Government and Deforestation

The United States of America is currently discussing mainly three ideas and are introducing these ideas to influential world leaders.

The First method, the Economic Development Model, aims for a reduction of consumtion at a global
level and the implementation of a world wide recycling program. Then, create a legal framework to enforce locally and have the veto power to regulate development.

Another idea, is the review of policy for local governments and urging of the governments to legally enforce the deforestation. This highlights the benefits of reduction in deforestation by expressing human equity, forest protection, and wildlife preservation.

Finally, the third idea proposes science with information. The providing of information regarding the problems and dangers of deforestation. This icludes the education of those at a local level to be able to inform farmers and loggers and answer questions.

Bob's Thoughts
I strongly feel, in this situation, there are very few ways to correctly solve the problem. Deforestation is undoubtedly worrisome and could potentially permanently deface the land. However the most motivating factor for these farmers will be the law. Throwing information and possible dangers is completely useless.
This land supports their livelihood, whether it be farming, logging, or cattle raising. It is their land, and they have families to support. And deforestation should be punishable by jail time and heavy fines. Whatever plans are put into action, the law must be most merciless and the affrontrunner for the plan. It will be hard to provide for a family from within a jail.

What can we do to stop deforestation?
To help the fight against deforestation, we as consumers, can reduce the amount of reliance on these products. If the value of the woods and agricultures of these areas decrease, the high occurence of deforestation will decrease. Mainly, what can be done is a reduction of the use of these tropical woods as lumber. The price decreases, the market for these items will be exponentially less, and the farmers must rely on another source for income. Cash crops can be overcome by the recution of competitions worldwide. Permiting a country one main crop could reduce competition within the country and even the world. If a product (i.e. cash crop) is bought from only one country but prices regulated by international trade treaties, the country can rely on a slew of farmers for the availability of the product. Mainly, we can be outspoken and support the elimination of deforestation. Propoganda can be very useful for the support agaist the products coming from deforestation practices. A reduced dependence is ultimately the best solution.
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Sources Used
http://www.botany.uwc.ac.za/  by  Jocelyn Collins
http://www.wrm.org.uy/  by  Juliette Moussa and Hans Verolme