What are boreal forests?

Boreal forests cover large areas in Northern latitudes such as Canada, Alaska, and Russia. They are made up of both conifers and deciduous trees. The animals that live there are adapted to survive cold temperatures year round.

Why are boreal forests important?

Over 300 species of birds rely on boreal forests for nesting or as a migratory stopover habitat. They also house 85 species of mammals, and countless invertebrates, trees, lichens, and plants.

Boreal forests sequester twice as much carbon as tropical rainforests, yet they continue to be logged at an alarming rate for the production of wood and paper products.

Why are boreal forests disappering?

Logging, mining, and oil and gas development all present significant threats to the boreal forest. Additionally, the Arctic and boreal regions are warming twice as fast as other parts of the world. This is causing more fires and diseased trees.

What can I do to help save boreal forests?

Reduce your use of paper products by using reusable cloths around the house.

Ensure any wood products you buy are from sustainably managed forests.

Purchase paper products made from sustainable fibers. Most major brands of disposable paper products sold in the U.S. are made of 100% virgin pulp - including that sourced from boreal forests. A shoppers guide to home tissue products can be found here. The Natural Resource Defense Council’s 2021 Issue with Tissue scorecard is here. If your favorite product received a low grade, contact the company and tell them you will not buy their product unless they stop using materials from boreal forests.

Millions of trees, including those in the boreal forest, are cut every year to produce the estimated 41 pounds of junk mail each American receives every year. Click here for tips on how to quickly and easily reduce junk mail sent to your home.