You've probably heard of deforestation, but did you know that once they cut down the trees, they usually don't grow back again? Nigeria used to have green forests as far to the eyes can see, but that changed in a short period of time.

Basic Information to Know About Deforestation Using the Who, What, When, Where, and Why:

What: Deforestation is the removal of trees, but instead of just cutting it down, they put chemicals into the trees to make sure that it is permanently gone.
Where: Some of the main places that it happens the worst include: Nigeria, The Philippines, Benin, Ghana, and Indonesia.
Who: Some companies that cause and support deforestation are IKEA, Walmart, McDonald’s, and Starbucks.
When: Deforestation started a long time ago, around the 1950s’, but it has only gotten worse within the years.
Why: Deforestation is done so that people can make space for new buildings, urbanization and mining.

Effects and Why It Should Be Stopped:
Deforestation can cause climate change, flooding and an increased amount of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide is released into the air.

Why is it Worst in Nigeria: In the last 16 years (2005-2021) Nigeria has lost over 400,00 hectares of land (one hectare is 10,000 square meters) and if you were to take the percentage, it’s almost 3.5% of Nigeria’s forests getting cut down every year.

Some ways you can help stop deforestation in your area:

• Plant trees or plants in crowded areas that you live by such as ponds, lakes and parks
• Start using recycled paper and use less paper at home or school/workplace
• Buy recycled products and recycle them again
• Support companies that are against deforestation (Amazon,Hershey's, and Disney) and limit yourself to going to companies that do support deforestation.
• Support forest conservation organizations such as the National Forest Organization, The Nature Conservancy, and American Forest.

Some ways you can help stop deforestation in Nigeria: