Natural forests around the world: Green lungs in need of protection
Natural forests are essential guardians of our existence, safeguarding life on Earth in all its diverse forms. Beyond providing a habitat for countless animal and plant species, they serve a vital role in absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, purifying the air, and replenishing it with life-giving oxygen. Through the miraculous process of photosynthesis, plants bestow upon us the invaluable gift of living in this corner of the cosmos.
Here, we delve into some of the planet's most stunning and influential green havens. We begin with tropical forests, encompassing those along coastal regions, and explore other ecosystems rich in vegetation, such as wetlands. This way, when you next encounter these natural wonders, you'll be reminded of the multitude of gifts they bestow upon us, forging an everlasting connection that, as an integral part of the human experience, binds us to the essence of our world.
Amazon Rainforest
The Amazon, known as the Amazon Rainforest, is the largest terrestrial rainforest worldwide. It spans over seven million square kilometers across nine South American countries, with Brazil, Peru, and Colombia claiming the most substantial portions. This incredibly rich ecosystem hosts a vast array of diverse flora and fauna, including remarkable aquatic and terrestrial species. Some plant species within the Amazon remain unidentified due to its immense biodiversity. Unfortunately, the forest faces significant threats from extensive logging and increasing global temperatures.
On the Iberostar Heritage Grand Amazon, a luxury cruise hotel, you can explore the Amazon River responsibly, enjoying the comforts of five-star accommodation. Offering three distinct routes, you'll have the opportunity to intimately experience the region's wildlife, and plant life, and immerse yourself in the traditions of its indigenous communities. Following sustainable tourism practices will further enhance the depth and significance of your journey.
Mayan Jungle
The Mayan Jungle, also known as the Mesoamerican Jungle, extends from southern Mexico to northern Guatemala, with Belize in between. This region is home to a variety of endangered species, including the jaguar and the scarlet macaw. Covering up to four million protected hectares, it could be described as a jungle that houses smaller jungles within it, like the Petén and the arid jungles of the Yucatán Peninsula. Approximately 588,000 people, representing different ethnicities and cultures, rely on the conservation of these protected forests for their livelihoods.
Mangroves: a small forest by the sea
Mangroves are unique tropical rainforests where most of the trees, known as mangroves, grow partially submerged in rivers and seas. They are the only forests on Earth that naturally form a barrier along coastlines. Besides their role in absorbing carbon dioxide (CO2), mangroves provide vital protection against storms, mitigate soil erosion, purify water, and offer shelter to a variety of marine life, including fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. In the Caribbean, you can find four primary species of mangroves: buttonwood, white, black, and red.
Iberostar, operating both from its Bávaro resort in the Dominican Republic and Paraíso resort in Mexico, collaborates closely with the Ministry of the Environment and other partners to champion mangrove conservation efforts at these destinations. Their objective is to raise awareness among guests and the local community and explore innovative methods for safeguarding these vital marine forests. Visitors to hotels like Iberostar Selection Paraíso Maya and Iberostar Selection Paraíso Lindo can explore designated mangrove areas to appreciate their beauty and gain further insights about them. Central to their efforts are conservation and reforestation initiatives, which have resulted in the planting of over 14,000 mangroves nationwide as of July 2023.
The Albuferas: An unknown ecosystem
The Albuferas, although not strictly considered forests, are wetland areas where the sea seamlessly merges with the land, giving rise to a thriving biodiversity. These areas consist of saltwater pockets, separated from the sea by sandy barriers but connected to it through one or two openings. The plant life in these areas, closely associated with Mediterranean vegetation due to their location and specific requirements, creates a unique kind of green oasis. Within these wetlands, you can find native and migratory birds, various insects, amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals. In some areas of Spain, like Valencia or Mallorca, the Albuferas are an integral part of the landscape, forming intricate ecosystems along the coast that are both stunning and delicate.
When you choose to stay at either of the two hotels within the newly refurbished Iberostar Selection Resort in Mallorca – the Iberostar Selection Albufera Playa or the Iberostar Selection Albufera Park – you'll have a unique chance to explore the S'Albufera de Mallorca Natural Park with heightened awareness. Go on walking excursions or rent electric bikes directly from the resort complex. This eco-conscious approach ensures you can fully appreciate and enjoy this captivating ecosystem in a sustainable manner.
Palm groves: Breathing oases
In certain areas of North Africa, such as Tunisia and Morocco, natural forests manifest as grand palm groves. Picture an oasis amidst the desert: that sense of relief and vitality you envision is a vivid representation of the climatic sanctuary they provide, particularly in the face of challenges like water scarcity. Palm trees are resilient, able to endure high temperatures, and thrive in both arid and humid climates. This is why they have longstanding associations with tropical and desert regions. One of the largest palm groves globally is located in Tozeur, Tunisia. If you're planning a trip to this country soon, we recommend consulting this comprehensive guide, which covers everything you need to know before embarking on your journey.
Mixed forests: The autumnal inspiration you didn't know you needed
Mixed forests are a diverse blend of conifers, deciduous trees, and variously-sized shrubs. These forests come alive with vibrant energy during autumn, transforming any stroll into a picturesque scene of rustling leaves, golden hues, and gentle whispers of wind. In certain European countries like Montenegro, this natural spectacle is an integral part of the transition from summer to fall. Within the protected woodlands of Durmitor National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1980 located in the northwest of the country, you'll find an array of wildlife including brown bears, wolves, and eagles. Additionally, the park is home to numerous endemic species of amphibians, insects, and reptiles, forming their communities around the park's lakes.
Consider the thriving grove as a window into the vastness of existence. Its presence, deserving of love and respect, holds profound meaning for us and all fellow inhabitants of our shared home. Protecting natural forests and their endangered plants isn't just about them; it's about maintaining our own balance too.