If you've been on social media in recent days, chances are you've seen the hashtag #PrayForTheAmazon and read about the fires ravageing the precious Amazonian ecosystem. Even celebrities like Jason Momoa [1] and Jennifer Lopez [2] are raising awareness for the fires currently rageing in the rainforest.
According to Brazil's National Institute For Space Research, the number of fires in the Amazon have more than doubled this past year, [3] with 74,155 reported by the organisation. The fires are having detrimental effects on the ecosystem, so bad that the smoke has been seen all the way in Sao Paulo, [4] a city over 1,000 miles away from the fires. While the source of the fires could be contributed to heat and dryness, it's also thought that humans may be to blame. [5] Practices such as logging and farming are two of the biggest offenders when it comes to burning down areas to make way for usable land. While social media can be great for spreading awareness, if you're looking for ways to donate, check out these nonprofits dedicated to conserving the Amazon.
Amazon Watch
Amazon Watch [7] is a nonprofit that has been defending the Amazon for over 20 years, protecting the rights of indigenous people and working to help address climate change. They work hand in hand with the indigenous people to come up with safe and effective solutions to the threats currently facing the Amazon.
Amazon Conservation Association
The Amazon Conservation Association [8] is committed to preventing forest fires, protecting the local wildlife, and advocating for local communities. Since its start in 1999, it has protected over 4 million acres of rainforest and established rainforect-protecting incentives in Peru and Bolivia.
Rainforest Action Network
Rainforest Action Network [9] or RAN works to battle against climate change and carbon emissions by using its donations to conserve rainforests around the world. RAN aims to stop corporate contribution by targeting major companies and educating the public on what they can do to help.
Earth Alliance
Earth Alliance, [10] cofounded by Leonoardo DiCaprio [11] and philanthropists Laurene Powell Jobs and Brien Sheth, is a new organisation starting with its first initiative: the Amazon Forest Fund. The initiative was started as a way to help first responders and aid those effected.
Additonal Reporting by Balim Tezel
