Forests worldwide are under significant threat.  In 2022 alone, the global loss of forests exceeded 16 million acres.  Forests are vital ecosystems that house a majority of the world's life on land, offering essential resources like food and fuel and sustaining the livelihoods of billions. Forests also play a crucial role in climate stability by absorbing and storing carbon dioxide.  Taking immediate action to curb illegal deforestation is crucial for preserving the integrity of forests, safeguarding wildlife, and protecting communities. The United States must act now.

The FOREST Act is a landmark bipartisan initiative that would stop agricultural products from illegally deforested lands from entering the US.  If enacted, it would require companies to use responsible sourcing and demonstrate that they are taking actions to remove illegality and abuses from their supply chains. The bill would also help to improve laws, monitoring, assistance, and enforcement in countries experiencing illegal deforestation.

The FOREST Act has been endorsed by a diverse coalition of environmental, human rights, and faith-based civil society organizations in the United States. And, in early February, nearly 100 faith-based organizations signed a letter to legislators supporting the legislation.  Please amplify this message by urging your representative and U.S. senators to co-sponsor the bill. If your representative or senator is already a co-sponsor, you will have the opportunity to thank them.

You can find more information about the FOREST Act and how illegal deforestation contributes to climate change, biodiversity loss, and violence against forest communities here.