Reasons For Concern
Throughout history, people have cut down trees, and converted forests into land for farming and other such "productive" uses, which have fueled the social, economic, and technological development that has ensued. Now tropical countries are developing rapidly. If they follow the model for the industrialized nations, why should then not cut down their forests, clear the land, and turn it over to agriculture or industry?  What is it about rain forest that has caused such strong feelings? What do we need tropical rain forests for?

People - all people on earth - need tropical rain forests. At the most fundamental level, rain forest provide a home for millions of tribal people, who have adapted to life in their unique habitat. They have a right to continue living in their traditional lands. For them, the forests provide shelter, animal and plant products, and food.

But many other people who do not actually live in the forests, rely on them just as much as the tribespeople. Rainforests differ from temperate forest in the sheer range and diversity of life that thrives within and under the canopy. It is now known that although they cover less than 6% of the earth's land area, they contain more than 50% of all species. It is essential to preserve this biological diversity. The genetic resources contained in the forests are the common heritage of humankind, and may well prove to be vitally important to the future welfare of the human race. Already many important medicines and drugs are derived from plant species unique to rain forests, and scientists believe that many more will be discovered.