Reading Comprehension
Reading Comprehension
The Amazon rainforest, the world’s largest tropical rainforest, spans across
nine countries in South America, with the majority of it located in Brazil.
Covering over 5.5 million square kilometers, it is home to an estimated 390
billion individual trees divided into 16,000 species. The forest is not only a
haven for flora and fauna but also plays a critical role in global ecological
balance.
The Amazon basin produces about 20% of the world’s oxygen, earning it the
nickname “lungs of the Earth.” It also acts as a significant carbon sink,
absorbing vast amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This
function is crucial in the fight against climate change, as excessive carbon
dioxide is a primary contributor to global warming.
Public awareness and global advocacy are crucial in driving policy changes
and increasing funding for conservation efforts. Educational campaigns
highlight the importance of the amazon and the need to protect it. Consumer
choices also matter; opting for sustainably sourced products can reduce the
demand for deforestation-linked commodities.
Despite these efforts, the battle to save the Amazon is ongoing. The future of
the rainforest depends on continuous and coordinated actions from
governments, organizations, communities, and individuals worldwide.
Protecting the Amazon is not just about preserving a forest; it is about
safeguarding a critical component of Earth’s life-support system.
What role does the Amazon rainforest play in combating climate change?
What is the overall message of the passage regarding the future of the
Amazon rainforest?