Subsistence Deforestation

Subsistence deforestation is a major contributor to climate change. Addressing the root causes is the way to slow it. 

Tropical deforestation is driven by a number of factors, including population growth, infrastructure projects and demand for timber-based products. 

Graphic showing the cycle of subsistence deforestation. Click for a larger view.Slash and burn agriculture

It is estimated that 40% of deforestation worldwide comes from subsistence farming . Subsistence farming often involves "slash and burn” methods to clear land. Small cultivators in countries like Panama depend primarily on periodically clearing more forest to provide for their families. While these practices are environmentally destructive, their options are limited until they have a more sustainable way to earn income.

Subsistence farming is one of the key drivers of deforestationDeforestation and climate change

Worldwide, deforestation is a major contributor to climate change and is estimated to contribute 17-20% of the globe’s total CO2 emissions. An area the size of Panama is lost to deforestation every year, releasing over 1 billion tons of CO2 into the atmosphere. While the problem may seem insurmountable, slowing deforestation is actually one of the most cost-effective ways to mitigate climate change.

From an environmental and social perspective, forests are an incredibly important natural resource. Worldwide, forests are home to 50% of all life on Earth. They cover about 30% of the planet’s surface and help regulate the world’s climate by storing CO2 in their trunks, roots and leaves. Roughly 1.6 billion people (23% of the world’s population) rely on forest resources for all or part of their livelihood. 

Addressing the problem

With so much at stake, more sustainable ways must be created to manage these resources. These solutions must address specific local needs such as technical training, income consistency and traditional cultural practices. Just as important, the solutions must be scalable in order to have effective environmental and social impact.

Planting Empowerment works with local communities and individual farmers towards this goal. Our Equitable Forestry model seeks to reduce tropical deforestation by promoting profitable native-species forestry, sustainable land management and benefit-sharing with local farmers/partners.