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Saving the rainforest is a common refrain among many environmental groups. Whether concerned with climate change, biodiversity, the humane treatment of animals, or any number of other issues, deforestation in the rainforest seems to contribute to the problem. And, unfortunately, the rate of deforestation only seems to be increasing.
With all of the problems this human act causes for the environment, it is easy to forget that destruction of the rainforest has a serious impact on the lives of people as well. The most directly affected are those who live in the Amazon Rainforests of Brazil. As loggers work their way deeper and deeper into the forest, more than 200 tribes have been pushed from their traditional homes and forced into a desperate nomadism, always struggling to stay ahead of the saws.
Some tribes, like the Akuntsus, are in danger of losing their language, their culture, and even their lives. The situation is dire, but giving them a voice is one step in the right direction.
Hear what the Akuntsus have to say on Focus Earth: October 18, 2008.
For more about destruction of the rainforest, check out these related posts:
Help Save The Amazon's Indigenous People
What IS Deforestation?
Amazon Deforestation Speeds Up Once More
The Amazon Jungle and a New York City Girl: The Natives
Uncontacted Amazon Tribe Is Photographed
