The next deadly pandemic is just a forest clearing away. But we’re not even trying to prevent it.

3/11/2023

This ProPublica article investigates the origins of the Ebola outbreak in Guinea in 2014 and highlights how deforestation and human activities contributed to the spillover of pandemics from wildlife to humans. It describes how the increase in logging and land-use changes in West Africa has brought humans into closer contact with animals, potentially increasing the risk of zoonotic diseases. The article emphasizes the importance of addressing deforestation and protecting biodiversity as crucial measures for preventing future outbreaks. It sheds light on the link between environmental degradation and the emergence of infectious diseases, urging policymakers to prioritize conservation efforts to mitigate the risks of future pandemics.

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