Forest NIKIN

How everyone can do something against deforestation

Despite the benefits from which humans profit every day, the tree is not given as much respect everywhere as it deserves. Recklessly, forest clearing is carried out worldwide. This is due to motives such as the exploitation of mineral resources, the creation of fields for agriculture or the conversion of forests into plantations. We tell you what you can do against it!

Some of them have been standing in the same place for hundreds of years, defying wind and weather. They provide shade on hot summer days and shelter when it rains. They come in all shapes and sizes. Their wood can be made into all kinds of furniture or serves as a source of heat in winter. They provide shelter and food not only for people but also for animals. They serve as models in proverbs and in "Lord of the Rings" they are even anthropomorphised and join in the battle for Middle Earth - with hobbits on their shoulders, of course.

That's right, I'm talking about the tree. That this is an all-rounder is also shown by the fact that it brings benefits which are certainly hidden from some. Until now!

Take a look at the exciting facts about the tree.

  1. Like any plant, the tree produces oxygen as a by-product of photosynthesis.
  2. The tree filters dust and particles from the air. That is why it is also called the "green lung" of the city.
  3. The tree stores carbon, which it extracts from the air. In this way, it makes an important contribution to combating climate change.
  4. The forest floor stores large amounts of water and thus prevents flooding.
  5. The forest is home to countless animal and plant species.
  6. The forest is a suitable place to relax and unwind.


    Despite the benefits from which humans profit every day, the tree is not given as much respect everywhere as it deserves. Forest clearing is carried out worldwide without consideration. This is due to motives such as the exploitation of mineral resources, the creation of fields for agriculture or the conversion of forests into plantations. As a result, 4.2 million hectares of virgin forest are lost every year. According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), an area of forest the size of half a football field is destroyed worldwide every second (!). Brazil is the country most affected by deforestation, followed by Indonesia and the Congo. In these countries, the rainforest, which protects the earth's surface from warming by means of haze clouds, is shrinking most drastically. Deforestation is destroying our protective shield, so to speak.

    If you are now thinking that the current situation is worrying, but that there is nothing you can do about the disappearing rainforest anyway, you are completely wrong! Deforestation - regardless of where and to what extent it takes place - affects every one of us. Once you are aware of the manifold consequences of deforestation, it can hardly be ignored. The consequences of global deforestation range from a lack of habitat for plants and animals to threats to biodiversity. An increase in greenhouse gases is promoted by deforestation and climate change is thus assured another OK. In addition, indigenous peoples will lose their livelihoods and natural disasters such as drought or floods will increase due to deforestation.

    Do you still think that deforestation is none of your business? No? Good!

    Then read the following tips and you will see that they can be implemented by everyone - especially by you.

    1. You have already read about the wonderful and useful properties of the tree. So take a stand against deforestation and plant trees! Either with NIKIN in cooperation with OneTreePlanted or why don't you just try it yourself? You can find a step-by-step guide here: Tree Care Portal.
    2. We all know Google. But how about an alternative? Try it with ecosia.org! Ecosia is a search engine that uses 80% of its revenue for reforestation projects, such as volcanic or mountain slopes. If you use Ecosia for more than 45 searches, you plant a tree yourself. Take a look - it's worth it!
    3. Keep your paper use as minimal as possible! NIKIN has also set itself the goal of becoming paperless. Therefore, your invoice will only be sent to you as a PDF by e-mail. Unfortunately, it is not yet possible to do without paper when sending invoices, but alternatives are being eagerly discussed.
    4. Since I'm not going to advise you to do without toilet paper, I'll give you a tip anyway: Buy recycled paper. The same goes for paper printed with notes from your fellow students or for coffee mugs, carrier bags etc. Next time you go shopping, just look for recycled alternatives. If so, put it in your shopping basket!
    5. While we're on the subject of paper, make sure you choose FSC certified paper or paper from sustainably managed forests. If the paper costs a little more and you're having second thoughts, remember that you're doing it to combat deforestation, which is rampant around the world, and ultimately for future generations.

    By the way, Arbor Day is on 25 April. How about planting your (first) tree then?

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