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More than just trees, forests are made up by an incredibly wide variety of species. The interaction of all these species combine to create thriving forest ecosystems, which are very important to the overall stability of the environment.
 Strong
forests are vital ecosystems
Forests are home to a huge portion of the world's biodiversity. They are packed full of different types of plants, which in turn provide food and shelter for all sorts of different animals. The role that each tiny insect or microscopic bacterium plays in these complex ecosystems may never be completely understood. In fact, the role that entire forests themselves play in our entire biosphere is only now beginning to come to light.
Strong forests are important to people
Forests are the cornerstone of the timber, pulp and paper industries. The biodiversity found in forests could also lead to as-of-yet unknown new foods and medicines. Forests also serve as a "sink" for the excessive greenhouse gasses that lead to global warming. Strong, healthy forests help prevent desertification, severe weather and all sorts of environmental instabilities.
Individuals can make a difference
People can work to strengthen forests in a number of ways. For starters, people should always recycle paper. Individuals should also favor sustainably-harvested wood when building new homes, decks or furniture. Finally, people can have an exceptionally large impact by supporting conservation efforts taking place in their local communities and worldwide.
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