Introduction

The Atlantic Forest (Mata Atlântica in Portuguese) is a region of tropical and subtropical moist forest, tropical dry forest, tropical savannas, and mangrove forests which extends along the Atlantic coast of Brazil.

The Atlantic Forest is one of the most threatened biomes in the world, with 40% of its species occurring only there, and is designated a World Biosphere Reserve by the UNESCO, and contains a large number of highly endangered species including the well known marmosets and golden lion tamarins.

It has been extensively cleared since colonial times, mainly for the farming of sugar cane and for urban settlements. The remnant is estimated to be less than 10% of the original and that is surrounded by low income rural properties which are the last human barrier to protect its interior.

But how to save a forest that for some specialists is already lost?
At one side we have a dying forest that needs urgent reforestation and protection and at the other side we have a farmer that needs work and a higher income. He can plant more trees and protect the forest to exploit it reasonably in the future, generating a sustainable, self sufficient cycle.

And who pays for it? Every person aware of the individual responsibility in the preservation of our forests can help. Either we get united to save our planet, or we loose it forever.